Progress Through Karate Ranks (Belts)

General Principles

Progress through karate ranks requires adequate time to learn the rank specific skills and continue developing a positive attitude (or character). This encourages the student to develop as a “whole person” rather than to simply acquire a new belt. The following information reviews the general time, skills and “attitude” (character) expectations:

Time

Each rank has a minimum number of active training hours required. Active training is defined as consistent and dedicated practice. Practice time is essential in order to learn the physical and mental/emotional skills of karate.

Skills

Each rank has a specific specific list of skills required. These skills fall into one of four categories: waza (traditional techniques), kata (patterns), kumite (sparring) and bunkai (self defense).
Each skill is expected to be performed at a specific skill level. For example, a new student will demonstrate a kick at a level 1 (beginner level) while a blue belt will be expected to demonstrate that same kick at a level 3 (more advanced level).
- Level 1: Beginner level - consistently demonstrates correct gross motor movement
  Level 2: Intermediate level - addition of fine motor movements, balance/stability; introduction to targeting, speed, power
  Level 3: Intermediate+: minimizing extra movements, consistency of targeting, sequencing, speed, power; introduction to timing upper and lower body connection; introduction to unknown combinations
  Level 4: Advanced: exemplary of level 1-3 with improvement to timing/connection; adding in focus, presentation

Attitude

In our program, students learn elements of respect, kindness, discipline and integrity in an age-appropriate way. Over time, we expect these skills to develop and mature. A link to the character development skills list can be found here.