[leareliovag]

Over ten years since I made that transition

There is not anything particular to me that stands out between my Yondan and Godan gradings. I can't really give you any specific advice apart from constantly train.

There are a lot in Japan that tend to turn up for just a few months before gradings to give it a try and of course fail. So to effect a really a smooth transition you need to practice hard.

I was an adult Yondan and taking seniority was not expected to do basics. Kiri kaeshi and kakari geiko were more of a quick warm up to do a lot of Jigeiko. But I joined in with the others with basic men uchi etc. And still do from time to time! Everything is the same but must be better. Stand up, move in slightly and "Take kensen control". No thrashing about

One thing that stands out in my mind is nearly every grade I have taken the opponent has screwed up the kata. Get yours right even if he screws it!

Of course you really need to practice with people that are higher than yourself. If you cant do that then it could present an obstacle

Godan in Japan is a prefectural level that says you are now ready to go out nationaly and try for Rokudan. They won't pass you unless they think you are ready. Sorry I dont know the actual prefectural pass precentages. If you are taking the grade abroad then it could be a bit different.

I have seen a lot of westerners who come over here a few weeks before gradings to do extra training. They have practiced regularly at home, but have a hell of a lot of work to do when they come over and pass by the a hairs breadth.

I had taken Iaido grades in countrys other than Japan so I had to change certain things to suit the judges. Here its no problem. The prefectural taikai is the day before. If you win that your almost home and dry. Its just a repeat performance

Hyaku