You have no new strikes, blocks, kicks, stances or kata to learn at this grade. You now have the opportunity to consolidate what you already know, refining your technique and kata. This will put you in good stead for your next grade (5th kyu Blue belt), where you learn new kata and begin your journey towards becoming an advanced karate-ka.
To successfully grade to Blue belt, the student must have made significant improvements in all previous techniques and kata, including Saifa. This does not solely include their speed and power when performing their techniques or kata; equally, they must demonstrate a greater understanding and ability in the key principles.
Key principles in Saifa that must have developed to grade to Blue belt are:
a) Developing a rhythm and contrast between the hard and soft aspects of the kata.
b) Landing in solid, uncompromising stances throughout the kata.
c) Grasping the small details with the various hand technique and positions during the kata. This includes the flicking of the wrists, whipping of the hammer fists, twisting of the hips etc.
