Belt Ranking System
The belt system is used as a method of evaluating merit and development of students. As students develop physically, they are expected to develop their character as well.
However, there are some misconceptions concerning belt ranks. Often, people compare belt ranks between schools, and place high importance on the color of the belt. This is wrong! While the belt is a symbol of hard work and dedication within a school, it is NO just basis for comparison between schools. The requirements for each level vary with each karate style and in each dojo according to the Sensei's standards, which reflect the degree of perfection he demands of himself. Emphasis should not be placed on what color belt a student wears, but rather on their actual ability, attitude, and improvement.
Juniors
| Rank | Translation |
|---|---|
| Beginner Kyu Gai | White belt |
| 9th (kyu) Kyu | Yellow belt |
| 8th (hachi) Kyu | Yellow belt with one stripe |
| 7th (shichi) Kyu | Yellow belt with two stripes |
| 6th (roku) Kyu | Purple belt |
| 5th (go) Kyu | "Purple belt with one stripe |
| 4th (yon) Kyu | "Purple belt with two stripes |
| 3rd (san) Kyu | Blue belt |
| 2nd (ni) Kyu | Blue belt with one stripe |
| 1st (ichi) Kyu | Blue belt with two stripes |
Adults
| Rank | Translation | Belt Color |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner Kyu Gai | White belt | White belt |
| 9th (kyu) Kyu | White belt with 1 stripe Genbu-Kai Patch | White belt with one stripe |
| 8th (hachi) Kyu | Orange belt | Orange belt |
| 7th (shichi) Kyu | Orange belt with 1 stripe | Orange belt with one stripe |
| 6th (roku) Kyu | Green belt 1st degree | Green belt first degree |
| 5th (go) Kyu | Green belt 2nd degree | Green belt second degree |
| 4th (yon) Kyu | Green belt 3rd degree | Green belt third degree |
| 3rd (san) Kyu | Brown belt 1st degree | Brown belt first degree |
| 2nd (ni) Kyu | Brown belt 2nd degree | Brown belt first degree |
| 1st (ichi) Kyu | Brown belt 3rd degree | Brown belt first degree |
