Belt testing guidelines

An important step in the study of karate is testing for your next belt. The successful completion of each test brings the student one step closer to becoming a black belt and students must demonstrate knowledge of certain skills before testing for the next level.

The specific skills required for each belt level are listed in the Student Progress Manual available at the dojo. Kyoshi Patrick will discuss with each student when they should expect to test for their next belt.

There are one Kyu (color) belt test each month and two Dan (black) tests available per year. The date of the test will be posted a minimum of 2 weeks before each test. When you have obtained the necessary hours of training to qualify to test, you will be given a testing application around 1 week prior to your testing date.

Following the test, each student is evaluated by an instructor and provided a copy of the written evaluation. This evaluation is confidential and is for the use of the student and the student family only. It should not be used as a basis for comparison among students as students are evaluated as indidviduals.

Suggestions of things to improve before the next test are provided. Upon successful completion of a belt test, the student are presented a new belt at the testing date and a certification of the rank, usually at the next class.

Belt testing, under 13 years old

The color of a Karatekas belt indicates her rank and in theory, her ability.

Each step forward represents a further accumulation of skills and knowledge.

Belt testing, 13 years old and up

To provide a friendly, safe, and positive environment in which, students can learn the philosophy and the skills of Martial Arts.

To have a strong, supportive martial arts family, which build positive role models within the surrounding community, demonstrating exceptional character and the philosophy of non-violence.