Grading and belts

Belts are used to mark stages of development. They are not the purpose of training. Progress is measured in understanding, control, and consistency over time.

Promotion is not automatic. Students grade when they are ready – not simply because time has passed.

If you are new and just want to know what a class looks like, start here: Training.

Gradings are held periodically through the year. In the weeks before a grading, your instructor will assess whether you are ready to test. You will be told in advance if you are not being put forward.

Knowing the syllabus is not enough. A student must show appropriate performance for their level – including control, focus, and understanding – not just the ability to remember sequences.

Consistency

Regular attendance and steady practice matter. Long gaps make progress uneven and reduce readiness.

Competence

Students must demonstrate the required material with correct intent, posture, and control – not just familiarity.

Understanding

As grades increase, expectations increase. Students are expected to understand what they are doing and why.

Junior students (roughly ages 12–16) often need more time to consolidate fundamentals. Where appropriate, an interim belt stripe may be used to mark progress between full grades.

Students aged 16 and over normally receive a full colored belt with each successful grading. For black belts, there are no dan bars on belts.

Optional reading: the dojo crest and name page explains the uniform badge and the marks used on this site.

Belt order used at Shuri Dojo

Belt colours vary across karate schools. The list below simply shows the order used here. Belts mark stages of development; they are not treated as goals in themselves.

Beginner – ungraded