How Long to Reach Shodan?
Shodan means first dan, not “black belt theatre.” Examiners look for kihon, kata, and composure. Compare yourself to last year’s you — not Instagram timelines.
Prep path
When close, study Grading Prep → Shodan and keep a keiko journal.
Practice takeaway
After reading, write one question for your sensei and one habit to try at the next keiko. Clarity without practice does not stick.
Hong Kong context
Urban venues, humid summers, and multilingual clubs shape local practice. Ask about schedule and language of instruction when you visit.
Where to go next
Return to Start Here for a sequenced path, or the FAQ hub for related questions. Avoid opening every page at once.