Tomiki Aikido Shodan Test: Koryu Kata, Knife Defense and Randori Drills

In this video, I’m sharing my Tomiki Aikido Shodan exam, a milestone marking the transition from a basic student to a serious practitioner. This grading covers the fundamental pillars of our style: classical kata, weapon defense, and randori. Founded by Kenji Tomiki (a student of both Morihei Ueshiba and Jigoro Kano), Tomiki Aikido (also known as Shodokan) is unique for integrating competitive sparring (Randori) into traditional Aikido training. It emphasizes distance, timing, and balance-breaking (kuzushi) in a way that allows for live application. The Meaning of Shodan… While often called a "Black Belt," Shodan literally translates to "beginning degree." It signifies that the practitioner has a firm grasp of the basics and is now ready to truly begin the study of Aikido. Koryu Dai San (First 16 Moves) The "Third Old Style" kata. This section consists of the first 16 movements required for Shodan, emphasizing powerful, classical techniques. Four Suwari Waza: Kneeling techniques. Four Hanza Handachi: Techniques performed while kneeling against a standing attacker. Eight Tachi Waza: Standing techniques. Junanahon no Kata vs. Tanto The 17 Basic techniques performed against a Tanto (knife). This tests the ability to maintain ma-ai (distance) and timing while under the pressure of a weapon. Tanto Kaeshi Waza (Knife Counters) A demonstration of counter-techniques. In this segment, I am holding the knife and must execute counters against the defender's attempts to neutralize the attack. Randori Drills: Kakari-geiko and Hikitate-geiko We finish with these Randori drills: Kakari-geiko: A continuous attack drill where I must handle successive strikes to test stamina and reaction. Hikitate-geiko: A guided sparring session where the senior partner pushes the junior to maintain flow and proper technique under pressure. Support the Channel! If you’re a martial artist or interested in Aikido, please Like, Subscribe, and hit the Notification Bell to follow my progress! Question: For those training in Aikido, which section of the Koryu Dai San do you find the most challenging? Let me know in the comments! #Aikido #TomikiAikido #Shodan #MartialArts #BlackBelt #KoryuDaiSan #Budo #SelfDefense #Randori #Tanto #Shodokan