Grading
The object of karate is to develop good character, not high rank. The grading simply places the student in range of other students at a similar level of skill and experience. Students have different levels of ability and progress at different speeds; therefore, you should measure your progress based on your own abilities and not compare them to others.
| Kyu
belt (i.e. yellow to brown) grading tests are held three times per
year: around the month-ends of September, January, and May. The test
generally has three elements: kihon, kata and kihon ippon kumite,
but there may be additional requirements for the higher kyu belt.
Technical proficiency is the primary criteria, but other factors,
including attitude, maturity, attendance, and tournament results may
also
be considered at the discretion of the examiners. There is a fee associated with kyu belt grading. In 2006, the fee was $20 per kyu belt grading test A grading test is a formal event, and candidates should behave accordingly. Candidates waiting to be tested should sit or stand quietly, without talking, |
 |
the floor. As well, candidates on the floor should keep these points in mind and remember to stand in "shizentai yoi" (ready position) while awaiting instructions from the grading panel.
Newcomers to the club are expected to have attended classes for at least one full term before attempting the grading test. If you have any questions regarding eligibility or any other issues, please consult the UTKC test registrar, or any member of the Yudansha.
Upon passing your kyu belt grading test, you will receive a certificate in class to state your new rank. Once you have received your new rank, you may wear the new belt colour (if applicable) in class. You may purchase your own new belt from any retailer of choice, or try to "borrow" one from a sempai.
Dan (Black Belt) Gradings
Black belt gradings occur only once a year during our annual Summer Camp ("Natsu Gasshuku") in August. There are minimum technical and other requirements to grade for ranks of Shodan or higher. Please consult with a senior black if you have any questions regarding black belt gradings.
Candidates who successfully pass their black belt grading tests will be presented with their black belts and/or certificates at a special dinner event.
Ranks Used at UTKC
| Black | 1st Dan (Shodan) or higher |
| Brown | 1st, 2nd and 3rd kyu |
| Blue | 4th and 5th kyu |
| Green | 6th kyu |
| Orange | 7th kyu |
| Yellow | 8th kyu |
| White | 9th kyu |
All Contents © Copyright 2006 Jinbukai Canada. All Rights Reserved.
Photos used with permission of Frances Chan.
No part of this website may be reproduced in any form in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of Jinbukai Canada.