Successful Dan Examination in Shobukan Inyo-Ryu Battojutsu

On May 8th, Jens Uwe Becker, head of Dojo Bürbach, successfully took his examination for 2nd Dan in Shobukan Inyo-Ryu Battojutsu.

The exam took place in the facilities of the Ninjutsu department of the Judovereinigung Siegerland. The examiners were Stephan Andreas (6th Dan Battojutsu) and Soke Hans-Jürgen Eul (10th Dan).

The setting already made it clear: this was not just a formal requirement — it was a true milestone on the path of a teacher.

Schon dieser Rahmen zeigt: Hier ging es nicht um ein Pflichtprogramm – sondern um einen echten Meilenstein im Weg eines Lehrers.

The Opening: Kata Sichi Tsuki Enters the Exam Program

The examination began with Kata Sichi Tsuki.
Although this kata has existed since 2021, it was only recently added to the official grading curriculum, marking an important step in the continued evolution of the system.

Sichi Tsuki belongs to the fundamental thrusting forms. It teaches the many possibilities of the Tsuki and serves as a foundation for later applications. Like many basic forms, it is not intended as a direct combat scenario, but as precise training of structure, direction, and control.

For exactly that reason, it is an honest test:
Nothing can be hidden here. Only clean technique, clear lines, and calm presence count.

And that is exactly what was demonstrated.

Rokudan – the Extended Form of Sandan

Afterwards, the exam continued with Kata Rokudan, the extended version of Kata Sandan, which demands a significantly higher level of precision, stability, and expression.

At this stage of a Dan examination, it is no longer just about performing techniques.
It is about embodying the principles.

Form, timing, control, and presence must merge into one.

The candidate completed the entire required program to the full satisfaction of both examiners.

Praise from the Soke

Soke Hans-Jürgen Eul especially highlighted the

excellent precision and clean form
shown throughout the entire examination.

Praise that carries weight in Battojutsu — because precision is not decoration. It is the visible expression of understanding, training, and attitude.

More Than a Rank

A Dan examination is not an endpoint.
It is more like a new beginning — just with greater responsibility.

Achieving 2nd Dan confirms not only technical skill, but also the role of teacher and representative of the style. The training journey continues — calmer, deeper, and with an increasingly refined sense for what truly matters.

Or, less ceremoniously:
Now the exciting part really begins.