INTERNATIONAL KARATE ASSOCIATION OF CANADA GRADING SYLLABUS
INTRODUCTION:
The following document provides a set of guidelines for gradings for members of the International Karate
Association (I.K.A) of Canada. Note that these are suggestions and that all dojos have the option to expand or
adapt according to their dojo needs and traditions. Techniques covered in this syllabus are required knowledge
but the presentation of these techniques may vary. The Sanbon, Bunkai Dai and Bunkai Sho referred to in this
syllabus can be found in "Ultimate Karate" by Kancho Okuyama. Also included at various levels are four
Gosuku katas which were developed by IKA founder, Soke Kubota.
Gradings are cumulative. All techniques and kata learned at one level must be practiced and improved. For
example a karate-ka being tested for 4th kyu (blue belt) is required to know Heian Godan. The karate-ka is
also responsible for all katas learned up to that level. The examiner can ask for any previously learned kata to
be performed.
It is important to remember that the following requirements are minimum recommendations and that every
effort should be made to exceed them since even the slightest flaw in the performance will result in
unsatisfactory grading results. Being an excellent yellow belt is far more important than being a mediocre
orange belt. Students must always conduct themselves with proper spirit and manner during a grading.
Students who are considering a grading should familiarize themselves with the requirements included in this
syllabus. Students are reminded to consult with your instructor to ensure that you are familiar with, and have
met, each requirement before you attempt a grading. Students must remember that if your instructor
encourages you to grade it does not mean an automatic pass.
Definitions
Power Demonstration of correct effort and force.
Movement Demonstration of correct transition between techniques.
Focus Demonstration of the knowledge of correct target points with a partner and to the student's miffor image
when there is no partner.
Breathing Demonstration of correct inhalation and exhalation during the preparation and execution of
techniques.
Control Demonstration of technique in such a way that maximum power and good focus is clear without causing
injury to and making minimal contact with a partner.
Form Demonstration of correct posture and position while in movement or in stance.
Speed Demonstration of technique that is quick as possible incorporating power, movement, focus, breathing,
control and form.
Gradings:
7th Kyu (Yellow)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a white belt (8h kyu) for 3 consecutive months (based on a training schedule of three
times a week). For children the time requirement is 6 consecutive months (based on a training schedule of three
times a week)
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate with power the techniques outlined below.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki
Kicks: Mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Sanbon
For Heian Shodan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan
Kata
Heian Shodan
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6th Kyu (Orange)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a yellow belt (7h kyu) for a minimum of 3 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week). For children the time requirement is 6 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week)
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate with power and movement the techniques outlined below.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki
Kicks: Mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Sanbon
Up to Heian Nidan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan
Kata
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5th Kyu (Green)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as an orange belt (6h kyu) for a minimum of 4 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week). For children the time requirement is 8 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week)
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate with power, movement and focus the techniques outlined below.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Kizaini zuki,
Kicks:. Mae-geri, Kizami mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi, Mawashi-geri, Ushiro-geri
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Combinations: Age-uke + gyaka-zuki Soto-uke + gyaku-zuld
Uchi-uke + gyaku-zuki
Gedan barai + gyaku-zuki
Shuto-uke + gyaku-zuki
Sanbon
Up to Heian Sandan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan
Kata
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4th Kyu (Blue)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a green belt (5th kyu) for a minimum of 6 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week). For children the time requirement is 12 consecutive months (based on a
training schedule of three times a week). An additional requirement is age related in that a child grading for a
blue belt must be a minimum of 9 years of age.
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control and breathing
a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Kizazni zuki,
Kicks: Mae-geri, Kizaini mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi, Mawashi-geri, Ushiro-geri
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Combinations: Age-uke + gyaku-zaki Soto-uke + gyaku-zuld
Uchi-uke + gyaku-zuki
Gedan barai + gyaku-zuki
Shuto-uke + gyaku-zuki
Sanbon
Up to Heian Yodan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yodan
Kata
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yodan
Ichi-no kata (Gosuku kata)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3th Kyu (Brown)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a blue belt (4th kyu) for a minimum of 6 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week). For children the time requirement is 12 consecutive months (based on a
training schedule of three times a week). An additional requirement is age related in that a child grading for a
brown belt must be a minimum of I 0 years of age.
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the examiner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Kizami zuki
Kicks: Mae-geri, Kizaini mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi,
Mawashi-geri, Ushiro-geri
Strikes Urakan, Tetsui, Nuldte, Empi
Blocks- Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Sanbon
Up to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yodan, Heian Godan
Bunkai
Demonstrate the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Kata
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yodan, Heian Godan, Ichi-no kata, Gosuku Yodan (Gosuku
kata)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2'h Kyu (Brown)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a brown belt (3d Kya) belt for a minimum of 6 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week). For children the time requirement is 12 consecutive months (based on a
training schedule of three times a week). An additional requirement is age related in that a child grading for a
brown belt must be a minimum of 1 1 years of age.
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing ,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the exan-dner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Kizami zuki
Kicks: Mae-geri, Kizarni mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi, Mawashi-geri, Ushiro-geri
Strikes: Urakan, Tetsui, Nukite, Empi
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Sanbon
Up to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yodan, Heian Godan
Bunkai
Demonstrate the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Kata
Heian Godan and Tekki Shodan or Bassai Dai
Gosuku Yodan (Gosuku kata)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
lst kyu (Brown)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a brown belt (2nd kyu) belt for a minimum of 6 consecutive months (based on a
training schedule of three times a week). For children the time requirement is 12 consecutive months (based on
a training schedule of three times a week). An additional requirement is age related in that a child grading for a
brown belt must be a minimum of 12 years of age.
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the examiner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Kizami zuki
Kicks: Mae-geri, Kizami mae-geri, Yoko geri kedge Yoko geri kekomi, Mawashi-geri, Ushiro-geri
Strikes: Urakan, Tetsui, Nukite, Empi
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Sanbon
Up to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yodan, Heian Godan
Bunkai
Demonstrate a complete understanding of the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Kata
Bassai Dai or Jion
Gosuku Yodan (Gosuku kata),
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
lst Dan (Black)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a brown belt (I' kyu) for a minimum of I consecutive year and trained in karate for a
minimum of 3 consecutive years (based on a training schedule of three times a week). For children the time
requirement is 3 consecutive years (based on a training schedule of three times a week). An additional
requirement is age related in that a child grading for a black belt must be a minimum of 16 years of age.
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the examiner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkatsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Kizami zuki
Kicks: Mae-geri, Kizami mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi, Mawashi-geri, Ushiro-geri
Strikes: Urakan, Tetsui, Nukite, Empi
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Sanbon
Up to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Bunkai
Demonstrate a complete understanding of the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Kumite
Jiyu-ippon kumite with five attacks which are: jodanoi-zuki,chudanoi-zuki,
mae-geri, yoko geri kekomi,
mawashi-geri
Kata
Demonstrate a minimum of two katas from the following:
Bassai Dai, Jion, Kanku-dai, Empi, Hangetsu, Tekki-shodan
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2nd Dan (Black)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a shodan belt for a minimum of 2 consecutive years and trained in karate for a
minimum of 5 consecutive years (based on a training schedule of three times a week).
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing ,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the examiner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Students may be requested to perform a series of basic combinations as determined by the examiner
Sanbon
From Heian Shodan to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
From Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Bunkai
Demonstrate a complete understanding of the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Demonstrate an understanding of at least two kata sequences of Bunkai Sho from Heian Shodan to Tekki
Shodan
Kata
Demonstrate a minimum of two back belt katas from the Shotokan list and Go-no kata from the Gosuku list
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3rd Dan (Black)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a nidan belt for a minimum of 3 consecutive years and trained in karate for a minimum
of 8 consecutive years (based on a training schedule of three times a week).
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the examiner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Students may be requested to perform a series of basic combinations as determined by the exan-dner
Sanbon
From Heian Shodan to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
From Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Bunkai
Demonstrate a complete understanding of the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Demonstrate an understanding of kata sequences of Bunkai sho from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Kata
Demonstrate a minimum of two back belt katas from the Shotokan list and Rikyu from the Gosuku list
Kata Bunkai
Demonstrate your own bunkai to one of the katas you have performed
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4th Dan (Black)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a sandan belt for a minimum of 4 consecutive years and trained in karate for a
minimum of 12 consecutive years (based on a training schedule of three times a week.)
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the examiner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Students may be requested to perform a series of basic combinations as determined by the examiner
Sanbon
From Heian Shodan to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
From Heian shodan to Heian Godan
Bunkai
Demonstrate a complete understanding of the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Demonstrate an understanding of kata sequences of Bunkai Sho from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Kata
Demonstrate a minimum of two back belt kata from the Shotokan list and two katas from the Gosuku list
Kata Bunkai
Demonstrate your own bunkai to one of the katas you have performed
INTRODUCTION:
The following document provides a set of guidelines for gradings for members of the International Karate
Association (I.K.A) of Canada. Note that these are suggestions and that all dojos have the option to expand or
adapt according to their dojo needs and traditions. Techniques covered in this syllabus are required knowledge
but the presentation of these techniques may vary. The Sanbon, Bunkai Dai and Bunkai Sho referred to in this
syllabus can be found in "Ultimate Karate" by Kancho Okuyama. Also included at various levels are four
Gosuku katas which were developed by IKA founder, Soke Kubota.
Gradings are cumulative. All techniques and kata learned at one level must be practiced and improved. For
example a karate-ka being tested for 4th kyu (blue belt) is required to know Heian Godan. The karate-ka is
also responsible for all katas learned up to that level. The examiner can ask for any previously learned kata to
be performed.
It is important to remember that the following requirements are minimum recommendations and that every
effort should be made to exceed them since even the slightest flaw in the performance will result in
unsatisfactory grading results. Being an excellent yellow belt is far more important than being a mediocre
orange belt. Students must always conduct themselves with proper spirit and manner during a grading.
Students who are considering a grading should familiarize themselves with the requirements included in this
syllabus. Students are reminded to consult with your instructor to ensure that you are familiar with, and have
met, each requirement before you attempt a grading. Students must remember that if your instructor
encourages you to grade it does not mean an automatic pass.
Definitions
Power Demonstration of correct effort and force.
Movement Demonstration of correct transition between techniques.
Focus Demonstration of the knowledge of correct target points with a partner and to the student's miffor image
when there is no partner.
Breathing Demonstration of correct inhalation and exhalation during the preparation and execution of
techniques.
Control Demonstration of technique in such a way that maximum power and good focus is clear without causing
injury to and making minimal contact with a partner.
Form Demonstration of correct posture and position while in movement or in stance.
Speed Demonstration of technique that is quick as possible incorporating power, movement, focus, breathing,
control and form.
Gradings:
7th Kyu (Yellow)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a white belt (8h kyu) for 3 consecutive months (based on a training schedule of three
times a week). For children the time requirement is 6 consecutive months (based on a training schedule of three
times a week)
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate with power the techniques outlined below.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki
Kicks: Mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Sanbon
For Heian Shodan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan
Kata
Heian Shodan
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6th Kyu (Orange)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a yellow belt (7h kyu) for a minimum of 3 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week). For children the time requirement is 6 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week)
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate with power and movement the techniques outlined below.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki
Kicks: Mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Sanbon
Up to Heian Nidan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan
Kata
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5th Kyu (Green)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as an orange belt (6h kyu) for a minimum of 4 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week). For children the time requirement is 8 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week)
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate with power, movement and focus the techniques outlined below.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Kizaini zuki,
Kicks:. Mae-geri, Kizami mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi, Mawashi-geri, Ushiro-geri
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Combinations: Age-uke + gyaka-zuki Soto-uke + gyaku-zuld
Uchi-uke + gyaku-zuki
Gedan barai + gyaku-zuki
Shuto-uke + gyaku-zuki
Sanbon
Up to Heian Sandan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan
Kata
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4th Kyu (Blue)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a green belt (5th kyu) for a minimum of 6 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week). For children the time requirement is 12 consecutive months (based on a
training schedule of three times a week). An additional requirement is age related in that a child grading for a
blue belt must be a minimum of 9 years of age.
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control and breathing
a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Kizazni zuki,
Kicks: Mae-geri, Kizaini mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi, Mawashi-geri, Ushiro-geri
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Combinations: Age-uke + gyaku-zaki Soto-uke + gyaku-zuld
Uchi-uke + gyaku-zuki
Gedan barai + gyaku-zuki
Shuto-uke + gyaku-zuki
Sanbon
Up to Heian Yodan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yodan
Kata
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yodan
Ichi-no kata (Gosuku kata)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3th Kyu (Brown)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a blue belt (4th kyu) for a minimum of 6 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week). For children the time requirement is 12 consecutive months (based on a
training schedule of three times a week). An additional requirement is age related in that a child grading for a
brown belt must be a minimum of I 0 years of age.
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the examiner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Kizami zuki
Kicks: Mae-geri, Kizaini mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi,
Mawashi-geri, Ushiro-geri
Strikes Urakan, Tetsui, Nuldte, Empi
Blocks- Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Sanbon
Up to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yodan, Heian Godan
Bunkai
Demonstrate the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Kata
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yodan, Heian Godan, Ichi-no kata, Gosuku Yodan (Gosuku
kata)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2'h Kyu (Brown)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a brown belt (3d Kya) belt for a minimum of 6 consecutive months (based on a training
schedule of three times a week). For children the time requirement is 12 consecutive months (based on a
training schedule of three times a week). An additional requirement is age related in that a child grading for a
brown belt must be a minimum of 1 1 years of age.
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing ,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the exan-dner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Kizami zuki
Kicks: Mae-geri, Kizarni mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi, Mawashi-geri, Ushiro-geri
Strikes: Urakan, Tetsui, Nukite, Empi
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Sanbon
Up to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yodan, Heian Godan
Bunkai
Demonstrate the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Kata
Heian Godan and Tekki Shodan or Bassai Dai
Gosuku Yodan (Gosuku kata)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
lst kyu (Brown)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a brown belt (2nd kyu) belt for a minimum of 6 consecutive months (based on a
training schedule of three times a week). For children the time requirement is 12 consecutive months (based on
a training schedule of three times a week). An additional requirement is age related in that a child grading for a
brown belt must be a minimum of 12 years of age.
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the examiner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkutsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Kizami zuki
Kicks: Mae-geri, Kizami mae-geri, Yoko geri kedge Yoko geri kekomi, Mawashi-geri, Ushiro-geri
Strikes: Urakan, Tetsui, Nukite, Empi
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Sanbon
Up to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan, Heian Nidan, Heian Sandan, Heian Yodan, Heian Godan
Bunkai
Demonstrate a complete understanding of the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Kata
Bassai Dai or Jion
Gosuku Yodan (Gosuku kata),
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
lst Dan (Black)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a brown belt (I' kyu) for a minimum of I consecutive year and trained in karate for a
minimum of 3 consecutive years (based on a training schedule of three times a week). For children the time
requirement is 3 consecutive years (based on a training schedule of three times a week). An additional
requirement is age related in that a child grading for a black belt must be a minimum of 16 years of age.
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the examiner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Stances: Zenkatsu dachi, Kokutsu dachi, Kiba dachi
Punches: Oi-zuki, Gyaku-zuki, Kizami zuki
Kicks: Mae-geri, Kizami mae-geri, Yoko geri keage, Yoko geri kekomi, Mawashi-geri, Ushiro-geri
Strikes: Urakan, Tetsui, Nukite, Empi
Blocks: Age-uke, Soto-uke, Uchi-uke, Gedan barai, Shuto-uke
Sanbon
Up to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Bunkai
Demonstrate a complete understanding of the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Sanbon Kumite
Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Kumite
Jiyu-ippon kumite with five attacks which are: jodanoi-zuki,chudanoi-zuki,
mae-geri, yoko geri kekomi,
mawashi-geri
Kata
Demonstrate a minimum of two katas from the following:
Bassai Dai, Jion, Kanku-dai, Empi, Hangetsu, Tekki-shodan
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2nd Dan (Black)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a shodan belt for a minimum of 2 consecutive years and trained in karate for a
minimum of 5 consecutive years (based on a training schedule of three times a week).
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing ,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the examiner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Students may be requested to perform a series of basic combinations as determined by the examiner
Sanbon
From Heian Shodan to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
From Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Bunkai
Demonstrate a complete understanding of the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Demonstrate an understanding of at least two kata sequences of Bunkai Sho from Heian Shodan to Tekki
Shodan
Kata
Demonstrate a minimum of two back belt katas from the Shotokan list and Go-no kata from the Gosuku list
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3rd Dan (Black)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a nidan belt for a minimum of 3 consecutive years and trained in karate for a minimum
of 8 consecutive years (based on a training schedule of three times a week).
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the examiner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Students may be requested to perform a series of basic combinations as determined by the exan-dner
Sanbon
From Heian Shodan to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
From Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Bunkai
Demonstrate a complete understanding of the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Demonstrate an understanding of kata sequences of Bunkai sho from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Kata
Demonstrate a minimum of two back belt katas from the Shotokan list and Rikyu from the Gosuku list
Kata Bunkai
Demonstrate your own bunkai to one of the katas you have performed
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4th Dan (Black)
Minimum Requirement
You must have trained as a sandan belt for a minimum of 4 consecutive years and trained in karate for a
minimum of 12 consecutive years (based on a training schedule of three times a week.)
Expectations
Students are expected to physically demonstrate and show with power, movement, focus, control, breathing,
form and speed a complete understanding of the techniques outlined below. The techniques should be performed
in any sequence of combinations determined by the examiner to show the students ability to adapt the
movements.
Kihon
Students may be requested to perform a series of basic combinations as determined by the examiner
Sanbon
From Heian Shodan to Heian Godan both the Dai and Sho versions
Sanbon Kumite
From Heian shodan to Heian Godan
Bunkai
Demonstrate a complete understanding of the techniques of Bunkai Dai from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Demonstrate an understanding of kata sequences of Bunkai Sho from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan
Kata
Demonstrate a minimum of two back belt kata from the Shotokan list and two katas from the Gosuku list
Kata Bunkai
Demonstrate your own bunkai to one of the katas you have performed
KANCHO TAKEMASA OKUYAMA