Introduction to Gradings

Our grading system will allow you to chart your own progress rather than compare yourself with other students. There are 10 levels up to black belt with each level called a kyu and cover 5 coloured belts. Each kyu has 2 levels with the higher denoted by a black stripe. The belts follow the order orange, blue, yellow, green and brown. Black belts also vary in degrees with 1st Dan denoted by one gold stripe, 2nd Dan by two and so on.

Tests for the various grades are held every 3 months up to 5th kyu, every 6 months for 4th to 2nd kyu, and 1st kyu having to train for 1 year before attempting black belt. The tests for your gradings are carried out in accordance with the grading syllabus which you wil be given once you join the dojo.

Given consistent training and constant practice you’ll see that it takes around 4 years before you can attempt your black belt grading however we stress that achieving the rank of 1st Dan should not be the end of’ your path in karate, but the beginning of a new journey, for like the ten levels below black belt, there are ten levels which one can aspire to after black.