MOUKO KAI KARATE AUSTRALIA GRADING REQUIREMENTS

White Belt/ Beginner:

A short, handwritten statement on why you have decided to join and what you hope to get out of training at the MOUKOKAIKAN.
This will help to personalise your training as your progress through the ranks.

10th Kyu Orange Belt:

- How to fold a karate dogi
- The meaning of MOUKO KAI
- Dojo etiquette and procedures

Stances (Fudo Dachi, Sanchin Dachi, Zenkutsu Dachi)
Strikes - Seiken Oi Tsuki (Jodan, Chudan, Gedan)
Strikes - Seiken Gyaku Tsuki (Jodan, Chudan, Gedan)
Defence - Seiken Mae Gedan Barai
Defence - Morote Tsuki (Jodan, Chudan)
Ido Geiko (Moving Basics) - All above techniques in Zenkutsu Dachi

Break Falls
Basic drills

Terminology
Seiken --- Fore fist
Tsuki --- Punch/ Thrust

Jodan --- Upper body
Chudan --- Middle Body
Gedan --- Lower Body

Gyaku --- Reverse
Mae --- Front
Barai --- Parry/ Block
Geri --- Kick
Hiza --- Knee
Ganmen --- Face
Kin --- Groin
Dachi --- Stance

Fudo Dachi --- Basic Stance
Sanchin Dachi --- Hourglass Stance
Zenkutsu Dachi --- Forward Leaning Stance
Heisoku --- Instep (on top of foot)

It is vitally important that students at this early level be aware of the etiquette which should be displayed towards instructors and fellow students.

9th Kyu Orange Belt Black Stripe

In addition to previous requirements;

Stances
Heiko Dachi --- Parallel Stance
Uchi Hachi Ji Dachi --- Pidgeon Toed Stance

Punches and Strikes
Ago Uchi --- Jaw Strike
Uraken Ganmen Uchi --- Inverted Fist to the Chin

Defence
Jodan Uke --- Upper Block

Kicks
Mae Keage --- Rising Straight Leg
Mae Geri --- Front Kich (chudan)

Ido Geiko
All above techniques in Zenkutsu Dachi

Nogare
Breathing Exercises (one and two)

Kata
Taikyoku Sono Ichi
Taikyoku Sono Ni

Terminology
Chusoku --- Ball of Foot
Taikyoku --- Basic Body Movement
Nogare --- Passive Breathing
Uke --- to receive/ block
Keage --- Rising
Ago --- Jaw

Note: The student of MOUKO KAI now should be developing a reasonable degree of competence with regard to understanding technique, focus, stances, balance and co-ordination both when stationary and moving in zenkutsu dachi.
The student should also have a working knowledge of dojo procedure.

8th Kyu Blue Belt

In addition to previous requirements:

Stances
Kokutsu Dachi --- Backward Leaning Stance (weight on back leg)
Moro-Ashi-Dachi --- Fighting Stance

Punches and Strikes
Uraken Yoko Ganmen Uchi (Saya Uchi) --- Inverted Strike to Bothe Sides
Uraken Hizo Uchi --- Inverted Strike to the Spleen
Kagi Tsuki --- Hook Arm Strike/ Thrust

Defence
Chudan Uchi Uke --- Middle Body Inside Block
Chudan Soto Uchi --- Middle Body Outside Block
Mae Shuto Mawashi Uke --- Circular Knife Hand Block (in Sanchin Dachi)

Kicks
Jodan Mae Geri --- Upper-Level Front Kick
Uchi Mawashi Geri --- Inside Cresent Kick
Soto Mawashi --- Outside Cresent Kick

Ido Geiko
Techniques moving in:
Zenkutsu Dachi
Sanchin Dachi
Kokutsu Dachi

Kata
Taikyoku Sono San

Terminology
Ma-Ai --- Combative Distance/ Correct Distance from Opponent

Note: The student of MOUKO KAI should now be moving towards a higher level of physical conditioning and should be regularly doing sets of push-ups, half squats and abdominal curls.

7th Kyu Blue Belt Black Stripe

In addition to previous requirements:

Stances
Tsuru Ashi Dachi --- Crane Leg Stance

Punches and strikes
Shuto Ganmen Uchi --- Knife Hand Stike to the Temple
Shuto Sakotsu Uchi --- Knife Hand Strike to the Collar Bone
Shuto Hizo Uchi --- Knife Hand Strike to the Spleen/ Floating Rib
Shuto Sakotsu Uchikome --- Driving Knife Hand Strike to the Collar Bone

Kicks
Yoko Keage --- Rising Straight Leg to the Side
Kansetsu Geri --- Knee Joint Kick
Chudan Yoko Geri --- Middle Body Side Kick

Ido Geiko
Above techniques to be performed in Zenkutsu Dachi

Kata
Sokugi Taikyoku Sono Ichi

Conditioning
10 Push Ups (knuckles)
10 Abdominal Curls
10 Full Squats

*Women and under 12 may do push-ups on their palms

Jiyu Kumite
2 x 1.5 minutes

Terminology
Sokugi --- Foot Technique

Note: The student of MOUKO KAI now needs to pay more attention to their technique generally as more difficult hand and foot techniques are being performed. Stances, balance and co-ordination become even more important.

6th Kyu Yellow Belt

In addition to previous requirements:

Stances
Kiba Dachi --- Horse Riding Stance

Punches and Strikes
Tettsui Komi Kami --- Hammer Fist Strike to the Temple
Tettsui Oroshi Ganmen Uchi --- Hammer Fist Strike to the Top of the Head
Jun Tsuki --- Side Thrust (moving in kiba dachi)
Hiji Oroshi Uchi --- Decending Elbow Strike
Hiji Ate --- Elbow Strike (jodan and chudan)
Age Hiji Ate --- Rising Elbow Strike
Chudan Mae Age Hiji Ate --- Middle Front Rising Elbow Strike
Ushiro Hiji Ate --- Reverse Elbow Strike (strike to the rear/ behind)

Kicks
Chudan Mawashi Geri --- Middle Level Circular Kick (roundhouse)
(Chusoku and Heisoke)
Gedan Mawashi Geri (Sune)

Ido Geiko
Above techniques to be performed in Kiba Dachi

Kata
Pinan Sono Ichi
Sokugi Taikyoku Sono Ni

Ibuki

Jiyu Kumite
4 x 1.5 minutes

Conditioning
20 Pushups
20 Abdominal Curls
20 Full Squats

In the students own words:
Explain what kata is and why we do it

Terminology
Pinan --- Peace and Tranquility
Ibuki --- Forced Breathing

5th Kyu Yellow Belt Black Stripe

In addition to previous requirements:

Punches and Strikes
Tatte Tsuki --- Vertical Fist (chudan)
Yohon Nukite --- Four Finger Spear Hand
Shotei Uchi --- Plam Heel Strike (jodan, chudan and gedan)

Defence
Morote Uchi Uke --- Reinforced Block
Osae Uke --- Suppression Block Downward
Haito Uchi Uke --- Ridge Hand Inside Block
Shotei Uke --- Palm Heel Block (jodan, chudan and gedan)
Sune Uke --- Shin Block
Tsukue Uke --- Scooping Block

Kicks
Mawashi Geri (jodan) --- Upper Body Circular Kick (roundhouse)
Ushiro Geri --- Back Kick
Mae Kakato Geri --- Front Heel Kick (jodan, chudan and gedan)

Kata
Pinan Sono Ni
Sanchin (without ibuki)

Yakusoku Kumite (Prearranged Sparring)
Three different combinations of your own choosing

Jiyu Kumite
6 x 1,5 minutes

Conditioning
10 Push-Ups (knuckles for men)
10 Push-Ups (fingertips)
20 Abdominal Curls
20 Full Squats
10 Seated "Side Kicks"

Terminology
Sanchin --- Three Battles (name the three battles)

In the students own words:
Explain what MOUKO KAI KARATE means to you and how have you grown as a person since training at the MOUKOKAIKAN

4th Kyu Green Belt

In addition to previous requirements:

Stances
Han Kiba Dachi --- Half Horse-Riding Stance
Musubi Dachi --- Preparatory Stance for Senior Kata

Punches and Strikes
Uraken Oroshi Ganmen Uchi --- Inverted Decending Strike to the Head/Nose

Defence
Seiken Juji Uke (jodan, chudan and gedan) --- Closed Fist Cross Block
Shuto Juji Uke (jodan, chudan and gedan) --- Knife Hand Cross Block

Ido Geiko
Techniques Perfeormed in Kaiten and Saigari
Enkei Gyaku Tsuki --- Half Moon Circular Block and Strike

Kata
Tsuki no Kata
Sanchin (with ibuki)

Conditioning
30 Push-Ups (knuckles for men)
30 Half + Full Squat ---(Performed Together = 1 count)
30 Abdominal Curls
10 Tuck Jumps

Board Breaking
1 Board Shuto
1 Board Seiken

Jiyu Kumite
8 x 1.5 minutes

Terminology
Teisoku --- Under the Foot Arch

Note: At this level the student of MOUKO KAI should have an understanding of all techniques up to and including 4th Kyu Green Belt.
The student should be able to perform them accurately and with the speed, power and focus required to advance to the Senior Grade level.

At this level, the student of MOUKO KAI KARATE should have an understanding of what discipline and perseverance means at an elementary level.

3rd Kyu Green Belt Black Stripe

In addition to previous requirements:

Stances
Shiko Dachi --- Sumo Stance

Defence
Kata Uke --- Shoulder Parry

Renraku/ Ippon Kumite

1. Attacker: Zenkutsu Dachi Chudan Tsuki
    Defender: Zenkutsu Dachi Soto Uke
    Counter: Chudan Gyaku Tsuki in Zenkutsu Dachi

2. Attacker: Chudan Mae Geri (draw leg back)
    Defender: Move back/ Retreat in Zenkutsu Dachi

Jiyu Kumite
10 x 1.5 minutes

Terminology
Shiko Dachi --- Sumo Stance
Bunkai --- Analysis of Application
Kata --- Shoulder
Nihon --- Two Fingers

Conditioning
40 Push-Ups (knuckles for men)
30 Half + Full Squat ---(Performed Together = 1 count)
30 Abdominal Curls
15 Tuck Jumps

Note: At this level, as well as being technically correct, the student must have a full understanding of all techniques and the application of these techniques (bunkai) involved in kata to date.

2nd Kyu Brown Belt

In addition to previous requirements:

Stances
Neko Ashi Dachi --- Cat Stance
Kake Ashi Dachi --- Hook Stance

Punches and Strikes
Awase Tsuki --- U Punch
Koken Uchi (Jodan and Chudan) --- Wrist Strike

Defence
Shuto Jodan Uke --- Knife Hand Upper Block
Shuto Chudan Uchi Uke --- Knife Hand Inside Block
Shuto Chudan Soto Uke --- Knife and Outside Block
Shuto Gedan Barai --- Knife Hand Lower Parry
Koken Uke (Jodan ) --- Wrist Upper Block 

Kicks
Tobi Mae Geri --- Static (Stationary Position) Jumping Front Kick
Ashi Barai --- Foot Sweep

Kata
Geksai Dai
Pinan Sono Yon

Jiyu Kumite
15 x 1.5 minutes

Conditioning
45 Push-Ups (knuckles for men)
30 Half + Full Squat ---(Performed Together = 1 count)
30 Abdominal Curls
20 Tuck Jumps

Must be attempting the Andy Frisella 75 Hard Program (if not completed already)
*Under 18's --- Sensei will work closely with parents to come up with a suitable program for their child.

Note: Students should now be able to instruct a full training session with the required degree of competence.

1st Kyu Brown Belt Black Stripe

In addition to previous requirements:

Stances
Heisoku Dachi --- Closed Stance

Hiraken Tsuki (Jodan and Chudan) --- Flat Fist Trust/ Strike
Hiraken Oroshi Uchi --- Flat Fist Descending Strike
Hiraken Mawashi Uchi --- Flat Fist Roundhouse Strike
Haisho Uchi (Jodan and Chudan) --- Back Hand Strike
Age Tsuki --- Rising Punch/ Strike
Morote Haito Uchi (Jodan and Chudan) --- Double Ridge Hand Strike
Haito Uchi (Jodan and Chudan) --- Ridge Hand Strike

Kicks
Tobi Nidan Geri --- Moving Jumping Front Kick
Uchi Oroshi Kakato Geri --- Descending Heel Kick (Inside)
Soto Oroshi Kakato Geri --- Descending Heel Kick (Outside)

Ido - Geiko
Techniques in Kiba Dachi 45 Degree Angle

Kata
Yantsu
Pinan Sono Go

Jiyu Kumite
20 x 1.5 minutes

Conditioning
50 Push-Ups (knuckles for men)
30 Half + Full Squat ---(Performed Together = 1 count)
30 Abdominal Curls
25 Tuck Jumps

Terminology
Heisoku Dachi --- Closed Stance
Hiraken --- Flat Fist
Yantsu --- Safe Three
Haisho --- Back Hand
Yundansha --- All Black Belt Levels

Note: By this time, a significant shift in strength and depth of character should be taking place. Students should have a basic understanding about the four pillars of human performance (mind, body, spirit AND emotions) and be on a journey to master them (lifelong).

It's important to know our strengths, and weaknesses, at this level; always improving in these areas so that we never stagnate and get comfortable.

By now, there should be plenty of reflection on the journey so far and preparing the mind, body, spirit and emotions for the next level, the coveted black belt.

Of course, under 18's are not expected to get an understanding in all these matters and a deeper level.
Just knowing that they exist and that it's an important part of personal growth as we progress is what really matters.
It's all about planting the seed.

Shodan; 1st Degree Black Belt
Note: The applicant for Shodan requires the recommendation of a Sensei or Shihan. It's not a right.
Meetings between Sensei Rob and the MOUKO KAI Committe will take place when the student's name has been put forward and recommended for promotion and it must be clear that everyone agrees to that recommendation.

In addition to previous requirements:

Essay
A short essay written and submitted before the grading. The topic to be decided by our Founder and Head Instructor, Sensei Rob James.

Technique
At this level, the student must show a high degree of skill, experience and expertise.
It's not about being perfect, it's about demonstrating that you know how to execute and also teach it to absolute beginners.
Sensei Rob is not looking for the next world champion, he is looking for someone who has built a solid foundation with the fundamentals of MOUKO KAI KARATE and is ready to be promoted.

Kata
All kata must be performed with the right amount of skill, accuracy and rhythm, understanding kata at a deeper level.
Names and their meanings must also be announced if and when required.

Bunkai
The student must understand what the word means and be able to demonstrate applications with the skill required at this level.
It's not about perfection, it's about knowing and understanding.

75 Hard Program by Andy Frisella
By the time the student is ready to sit the examination, the 75 Hard Program (or it's equivalent for under 18's) must already be completed.
This is not negotiable.

The Four Pillars of Human Performance
At this level, the student must be able to name them and explain why it's important we build and improve on all dimensions, not just the physical.

Kata
Sanchin

Jiyu Kumite
25 x 2 minutes

Conditioning
50 Push-Ups (knuckles for men)
30 Half + Full Squat ---(Performed Together = 1 count)
30 Abdominal Curls
30 Tuck Jumps

Nidan; 2nd Degree Black Belt
The Path of Precision, Power, and Presence

Note: The applicant for Shodan requires the recommendation of a Sensei or Shihan. It's not a right.
Meetings between Sensei Rob and the MOUKO KAI Committe will take place when the student's name has been put forward and recommended for promotion and it must be clear that everyone agrees to that recommendation.

Second Dan is not just a continuation of black belt skill —
It is the beginning of mastery. At this level, the student evolves into a practitioner who can teach, lead, and embody the philosophy of MOUKO KAI with absolute clarity and command.

I. FOUNDATION REFINEMENT

1. Kihon (Fundamentals)

• Full execution of all basic techniques with precision, power, and rhythm

• Advanced application of:

  • Stances: kiba dachi, neko ashi dachi, sanchin dachi

  • Transitional movement and weight transfer

• Correct breathing: focus on ibuki breathing under pressure
  
  

  2. Renraku Waza (Combination Techniques)

  • 10 advanced full-body combinations (punch-kick-elbow-knee-flow)

  • Emphasis on fluidity, power and control

  • Use of angles, evasion, and counter-offensive momentum
    
    

KATA (FORM)

Compulsory Kata:

• Seienchin – Mastery of tension, breath, internal focus

• Tsuki No Kata – Advanced understanding of rhythm and timing

Bunkai (Kata Application)

• Interpretative breakdown of all listed kata with real-world application

• Demonstrate control, restraint, and lethal efficiency

• Must show fight relevance, not mechanical mimicry

 

III. KUMITE (SPARRING)

1. Technical Kumite

• 5 rounds of controlled, strategic sparring

• Display of distance control, feints, setups, and clean execution

2. Full Contact Kumite

• 20-man Kumite (10 men x 2-minute rounds, light rotation)

• Judges will observe:

  • Endurance

  • Fighting spirit

  • Control of ego under pressure

IV. CONDITIONING & PHYSICAL TESTING

• 50 push-ups (knuckle, non-stop)

• 50 sit-ups

• 50 squat jumps

• 20 burpees in under 3 minutes

• 5-minute wall sit

• Tameshiwari (breaking test):

  • 3 techniques: Shuto, Mae Geri, and Seiken

  • Demonstrate technique > force

Nidan is the Belt of Responsibility.
It is not given — it is earned through blood, sweat, clarity, and honour.
You no longer represent just your ability… you represent the art.
MOUKO KAI demands that you now lead from the front.