Grading gives you an opportunity to formally demonstrate your required basics, kata and self-defence. During the grading you will be watch by a grading panel, made up of your Senseis and Sempais. This is the process you must go through to achieve your next belt level. Remember that although a grading is a formal demonstration of your abilities, each and every day you are being informally graded. Treat every class like a grading. Always give 100% of your ability to your daily training and you will be ready to grade when the time comes.

To ensure that you are ready to grade follow these guidelines:

1. Minimum of 30 classes to qualify for grading. Higher belts will require more classes as the degree of difficulty increases as you progress up the ranks. This does not mean that as soon as you reach class #31 you can get an application to grade. You must be ready!
2. You must know your kata very fluently. That means good basics for a strong foundation. Your kata must have strong and accurate techniques - strong stances and crisp/sharp arm techniques. You must be able to perform your kata with no hesitation or doubt about your performance.
3. Defenses always seem to pose a problem. If you feel you have not got full knowledge of your defenses "DON'T ASK TO GRADE". Seek help from a Sensei, Sempai or any higher ranking belt. Always make us aware if you don't know or understand something. "Mind reading is not a black belt requirement". If you don't ask, we don't know you need help.
4. When you have satisfied the grading requirements listed above, then you may ask for a grading application. Complete your application as soon as possible. Your next job is to make sure you have shown your kata and defenses to two Senseis in order to get the required two signatures on your application. These signatures only mean you may participate in the grading, not that you have already passed. All applications for grading must be in before the deadline posted on the whiteboard.
5. In the grading, as in your regular classes, you are expected to give 110%. Show the grading panel that you know everything on your card. This can only be achieved by paying attention in class, participating in class activities and practice, practice, practice (not only in class either).
6. If you wish to get extra help, please approach a Sensei, Sempai or higher belt. We will make sure you get the help you need.

Your advancement in the Martial Arts is based on your efforts and your efforts alone. We can provide you with the tools - basics, kata, self-defense and sparring - what you do with them is up to you. If this does not explain what is required for Grading please do not hesitate to come and ask questions. The door is always open.

Your Martial Arts training is a journey...not a destination.

Copyright 2006 © | Thousand Islands Martial Arts | Last updated January 07