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It is IUKF's responsibility to imbue our students with the confidence, strength and technique to pass any test given by the board. Generally, a student fails because he/she lacks the technical ability and most importantly, the spirit required for rank advancement. When queried about this subject, the board members all agree that it is easy to identify a successful performance. The one single attribute all point to is the spirit shown by the student. This spirit can often offset a technically flawed performance.

The spirit of Sanchin must be present throughout the test. A candidate cannot simply be told about this spirit. It must be part of every workout. The performance at the test must be a natural demonstration of Uechi-ryu ability developed through years of spirited training in the dojo. Empty technique without Sanchin spirit will not work during a IUKF dantest!

As teachers, our job is to prepare our students for the unexpected during a test. Certainly, no one will encounter simple, standard or prearranged situations on the street! Failing life's real challenges won't allow your student the option of returning in six months for another bout with a knife, gun or multiple attack. The failed test may result in an obituary notice and another headline crying out for more police protection. No dantest is as severe as real life!