Progress in karate training is rewarded by the issue of coloured belts in a set order, upon successful completion of grading (exam). Gradings also provide students with a guide on how their karate techniques are improving.

Gradings test each of the three disciplines of karate (kihon, kata and kumite). Students are usually in groups when performing their gradings.

Kihon (basics) consist of students performing sets of 5 techniques with a kia on the 5th technique. These range from simple stepping punches and blocks for beginners, through to advanced combinations for the higher grades. The examiner will pre-announce each set of moves.

Each grade has an associated kata which students will perform at the grading. For younger children 9yrs and below kata is not performed at a grading until they reach yellow belt.

At 1st Kyu and Dan gradings, students must also perform kata applications.

Finally, the kumite (fighting) or pair work, starts with three-step for beginners, one step for coloured belts and Kumite (free sparring) for 1st Kyu and above

ATTENDANCE CARD & YOUR FIRST BELT (orange)

Students receive a grading attendance card and licence book upon membership/licence payment. Students will need these items before they will be able to progress through the belt system. At each lesson the attendance card is stamped by the main club instructor.

Once students have completed 18 lessons on their stamp card and their instructor agrees the required standard has been reached, students will be awarded their 1st belt. Students do not have to take a grading for their first belt.

SUBSEQUENT BELTS (red-black)

All subsequent belts vary in the minimum number of lessons and additional requirements. These will be shown on the attendance stamp card. Every few belts students will receive a new coloured coded stamp card.
From orange belt onwards students will have to take an official grading-see locations below. Students must have trained for a minimum of 10 weeks since their last grading and their instructor must confirm the required standard has been reached. A form will them be issued.

Grading Locations

Bromfords Sports Centre, Grange Avenue, Wickford		Sunday 11.30am
Springfield Parish Centre, Springfield, Chelmsford		Sunday 18.00pm