Grades and Katas

Kushido uses an independent Grading System with corresponding belt colours. The phases from beginner to Black belt is split into three major phases with further sub-phases. There is a corresponding Form (Kata) for each phase to practise. To attain the next level the student must show the techniques and applications to demonstrate their capabilities and the understanding of the katas, the student must also show their basic skills, partner work and so much more...

The following grades are for the over 16 years olds
 For children's grades click here

White belt = Basics:
White belts have to learn first the principles of the punch, block, kick with stances and body movements and posture.  Basics (kihon) are the foundation, which means this is very important.

 

                         Kata                        

for level

 
 

Heian Shodan

 1      
  Heian Shodan  +  Sanchin Breathing 2      
  Gekisai Dai Ich 3      
  Gekisai Dai Ni 4      

Green belt = fluent combinations:
During the Green belt phase basic techniques are connected more and more with more body movement, 'getting out of the way of an attack', distance and timing.  This means using the basic techniques leant as a white belt and applying them with focus.

 

                         Kata                        

for level

  
  Saifa 5      
  Saifa 6      
  Naifunchin 7      

Brown belt = Focus, Speed, Control
Brown belts learn to come right to the point. This means techniques focused to the aiming point with high speed, proper control and proper usage of body and power. 

 

                         Kata                        

for level

  
  Seiyunchin 8      
  Seiyunchin 9      
  Shisochin 10    

Black belts
After working hard for the black belt the 1st Dan is not (only) the arrival at a long desired target line but also the start for an interesting time with new techniques, applications and experience.  A good solid foundation has been built, this is where the real learning (fun) starts.
Kushido / karate-do international will only give a black belt to someone who has the skill, knowledge, understanding, commitment and maturity to have one, (no children).

 

                         Kata                        

for level

  
 

Shisochin

 1. Dan  
  Sanseiru + Seipai 2. Dan  
  Seisan  +  Tensho Breathing 3. Dan  
  Kurarunfa 4. Dan  
  Suparimpai 5. Dan  

 

As well as knowing the katas and applications (bunki) to them, the student must also have an understanding of all the techniques leant and why we do them.  There are also 3 flow drills for each coloured belt which must be mastered.  Gradings are designed to be tough and  put pressure on the student, but if the student has the skill and knowledge they should pass with no trouble.

The Dan grades go up to 10th Dan, Hanshi Dennis has recently  been awarded 9th Dan.  He is the head of kushido world wide, and currently holds the highest grade in the system.

Children's grades

Children are physically and mentally different from adults, so the grading system for them is different as well.  Although the children change to the adult grading system at about the age of 16, (when they are more mature) it is very rare to get a black belt under the age of 18.  This is one example of how KUSHIDO is different to other karate styles.
Most of the grades are aimed at body control, awareness, building confidence, working as a group, with a partner, or on ones own.  We always try to have fun with the children, but we also enforce discipline, especially in a grading.


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