Ranking System

One of the first things you will probably notice when looking in on karate class is that there are several different coloured belts adorning the white uniforms. The colour of each belt corresponds to the level of experience and ability of the individual wearing it. Everyone begins wearing a white belt. From white they progress through the respective levels of yellow, orange, green, purple, brown and black. We use the Japanese term kyu to refer to the coloured belts and dan to refer to black belts.
Examinations are generally held three times per year here in our dojo. They are usually scheduled to fall on a weekend. Examinations are given by either Sensei Jones or Master Yaguchi who travels from Denver, Colorado especially for the grading. There is a short write-up on Master Yaguchi here.

Occasionally we have the opportunity to train with Master Yaguchi in special seminars held just prior to the examinations. Everyone is encouraged to participate in these extra classes. Any member karate-ka may present themselves for examination, provided that they have met all the requirements listed in this guide.

The karate-ka shall wear a clean white karate uniform, an ISKF crest and the belt representing his/her present rank.

Belt Colour	Rank	Minimum Training	Kata required for next belt/grading		Grading Syllabus
	9th Kyu		Heian Shodan
	8th Kyu	4 months	Heian Nidan
	7th Kyu	8 months	Heian Sandan
	6th Kyu	12 months	Heian Yondan
	5th Kyu	16 months	Heian Godan
	4th Kyu	20 months	Tekki Shodan
	3rd Kyu	24 months	Bassai Dai
	2nd Kyu	28 months	Bassai-Dai
	1st Kyu	32 months	Bassai-Dai Kanku-Dai Jion or Empi
	Shodan 1st Dan	3-3½ years	All kata's will need to be known	Kata page »