The grading system in Karate has been introduced for a variety of reasons. In modern day, it is a sign of having achieved a particular
skill level, that gives the student an indication on how they are progressing. As a visible sign, the colour of one's belt lets other students in
the class know what skill level to expect from their fellow students. This makes partner training easier, and the newer students know where
to look for the more experienced students.
Traditionally in most Karate styles, there are 9 stages where students go from 9th kyu (kyu means student) to 1st Kyu wearing coloured belts,
and ultimately become 1st Dan (Black belt). Learn more about the
history of Karate belts here.
Fashion-conscious Black belts can purchase
specially ornamented Karate belts that stand out with Satin layers and logos to provide a more
impressive look.
The grading procedure typically involves a training session where experienced Karateka (typically black belts from 1st Dan onwards) examine the performance of the students,
including basic techniques, Kata, and sparring. In general, the further you advance in the study of Karate, the more precision and also fighting spirit
is expected in the performance of all techniques. Familiarity with Dojo etiquette and also a good grasp of the
Japanese terminology is also increasingly expected.
Katas play an important role in Karate, and Goju-Ryu Karate is no exception. The following table describes the Kata and
Bunkai requirement for gradings (belt examinations).
Kata requirement in belt examinations (gradings)
| Stage | Kata requirement | Rank | Belt colour |
| 1 | GEKISAI DAI ICHI | 9th Kyu | White Belt 1 Black Bar |
| | plus BUNKAI | 8th Kyu | White Belt 2 Black Bars |
| 2 | GEKISAI DAI NI | 7th Kyu | Yellow Belt |
| | plus BUNKAI | 6th Kyu | Yellow Belt 1 Black Bar |
| 3 | SAIFA AND SANCHIN | 5th Kyu | Green Belt |
| | plus BUNKAI | 4th Kyu | Green Belt 1 Black Bar |
| 4 | SEIYUNCHIN | 3rd Kyu | Brown Belt |
| 5 | plus BUNKAI | 2nd Kyu | Brown Belt 1 black Bar |
| 6 | SHISOCHIN | 1st Kyu | Brown Belt 2 Black Bars |
| 7 | SHISOCHIN | 1st Dan | Black Belt |
| 8 | SANSERU | 2nd Dan | Black Belt |
| 9 | SEPAI AND TENSHO | 3rd Dan | Black Belt |
| 10 | KURURUNFA | 4th Dan | Black Belt |
| 11 | SESAN | 5th Dan | Black Belt |
| 12 | SUPARINPEI | 6th Dan | Black Belt |
Note: All Gradings from 1st Dan onwards also examine the
Bunkai for the Kata. Click here for the
names and meanings of the
Kata names of
Traditional Okinawan Guju-Ryu Karate-Do.
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Karate Terminology
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