In the BJC we compete from green onwards, alongside kata + theory requirements, so I don’t understand why the BJA, the more sport-styled association, doesn’t have Shiai for Kyu-rank progression.
I did not know that, very interesting i think having the early grades easily accessible but requiring some competitive experience for later Kyu grades is more than reasonable, it is after all a combat sport, I get shiai isn't for everyone, but being able to jump belts every 3 months with little real restrictions only harms the judoka if you ask me
It’s definitely not for everyone, but after a certain age or for specific circumstances, they can go the non-competitive route which takes longer, but generally requires more understanding of theory and kata.
It works by either 3 wins on the day, or 60 points which equates to 5 wins over a set period of time. Points/wins are only counted against own/higher grade & gender, and then once you have your syllabus and kata signed off you can be promoted (or after earning points if they’re signed off beforehand).
It’s still possible to jump grades should you meet all those requirements, at the last area grading there was someone who went from green to brown, but that’s because he won 3 at Green, 3 at blue and then even 2 at brown. But generally it would be say orange-green, fight at Green, potentially get to blue.
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u/Wickle2545 ikkyu Jul 06 '25
BJA should bring back fighting for Kyu grades for seniors...