Insights

Gary Swift 7th DanThe British Wadokai Black-belt Grading & the relationship with the young student

The black belt has been always been the focus for the all Karate Kohai for as long as there's been Karate in the UK. Most children
who start Karate dream of one day possessing that coveted Black-belt.

It must be remembered that a Black-belt grade is something more than just 'another' grade that must be passed. All Yudan gradings require much more practise and dedication than that.

It is always recommended, and usually expected, that anyone attempting any Yudan grade must be already training at least twice a week in the Dojo, and at least every other day at home. There is no such thing as a border-line grade, you either pass it well or fail it.
Percentage marks for Kyu grades are normally averaged out to 75% to pass - Black-belt grades are 82%
or over.

Basically,

  • Shodan grades tell us that you are 'proficient' in the understanding of fundamental techniques, terminology, history, anatomy, vulnerable points, Dojo etiquette, rules, etc., etc.
  • Nidan grade means that you have instant knowledge in all aspects of Wado-ryu technique & terminology.
  • Sandan is regarded as the start of the ‘master’ grades. You should be loyal & dedicated 150% and train at least 2 times per week at a regular Dojo, as well as training at home almost every day, of course.

Home training is essential, and it goes without saying, of course, that most aspects of Karate training can be 'perfected' within the home-training environment. Knowing the correct technique is important, of course, as wrong practise can very often be worse than lack of practise in the first place - Know correctly what you are practising BEFORE home training.

A student of 18 or below rarely passes for Nidan, due to the fact that these stipulations are very strict and difficult keep up with the young student. There are too many distractions for them; girls/boys, videogames, 'hanging-out' with mates, and generally doing the 'teenage thing'.

An applicant for Nidan must be absolutely committed to Karate, which is so very rare in the youth of the West; as interest wanes in almost every activity a teenager attempts. 20 is the lowest age for the Sandan applicant, as I have found from personal experience that a 'mature' mind required for a 'master' grade starts well into the late 20's/early 30's.

So, where do we stand with the Junior as far as Black-belt grades are concerned? Well as a 'general' rule of advice, if you are between 11 & 13, and 100% dedicated & proficient, attempt the grade. If you pass your grade at 82% or above, you will awarded your grade. If you are considering Nidan, and above the age of 16 and 100% dedicated, loyal, & proficient, attempt the grade. For Sandan you will need to already be a Main Instructor of a club. For maturity it would also be advantageous to be over the age of 25 (although the minimum age for Sandan is recommended to be 20).

All applicants are assessed as ADULTS for all Yudan grades. So unless you are really serious about your Karate training EVERY DAY, have a mature attitude, help out in the Dojo (teaching, keeping the discipline, etc.), and eat/drink/sleep Karate - then forget it!

Gary E Swift Kyoshi.