Bujinkan Grading in Bristol

PUBLISHED 16 JUNE 2025

Students put to the test in day-long assessment of martial arts skills

Bristol, UK — Students of the Bujinkan Inyo Dojo faced a rigorous challenge this past weekend during the club’s twice-yearly grading session, held at its training facility in Bristol. The demanding event tested the physical and mental discipline of each practitioner, culminating in a series of examinations designed to evaluate their progress in traditional Japanese martial arts.

Before the grading itself, participants underwent a gruelling six-hour training session, covering a wide range of techniques including strikes, kicks, and weapons work. The exhaustive seminar pushed students to their limits, ensuring that only those with true commitment and resilience would be ready to face the grading that followed.

The assessment portion of the day required students to demonstrate not only technical ability but also a deep memory of complex movements and forms. From basic punches and defensive stances to the intricate kata of schools like Gyokko Ryū and Koto Ryū, each candidate was expected to showcase precision, understanding, and fluid execution.

The Inyo Dojo operates under the umbrella of the Bujinkan, a Japanese martial arts organisation that encompasses nine historic schools of budō. The system includes both unarmed combat and traditional weaponry, and is renowned for its depth, complexity, and emphasis on real-world application. With hundreds of techniques—and countless variations—students face a long and demanding path through the ranks.

Chief instructor Raj Bhakerd, a 9th dan black belt, leads the dojo with a reputation for excellence and integrity. Grades are not awarded lightly. Testing isn’t just about physical performance—it’s about presence, awareness, and the ability to embody the principles of these ancient traditions.

At the beginner level, students are expected to demonstrate mastery of fundamental movements such as kamae (stances), tsuki (punches), and uke (blocks). As they advance, they are introduced to the kata and combat principles of the classical schools. At the elite level of 5th dan, students must pass the infamous sakki test—a spiritual and instinctive challenge where the candidate must evade a surprise strike delivered from behind with a wooden sword, based solely on sensing the attacker's intent.

This session also marked a significant personal moment for senior student Chris Kaye, who returned to training after a three-month hiatus due to a serious ankle injury. Kaye, who suffered a grade 3 sprain during a run earlier this year, made his comeback during the seminar, showing determination and progress in his recovery.

While no students were promoted this time, Bhakerd noted that the event served its purpose: “Now each practitioner knows exactly what they need to work on for the next grading in December. That’s how true martial progress is made.”

As the dojo continues to uphold the traditions and standards of the Bujinkan, its members leave the hall with sore muscles—but renewed motivation.