Learning objectives for each rank.
One and two
None
Techniques are to be done carefully and very lightly. The student should focus on basic stretching and simple physical activity.
Three
None
Students should still do only light techniques.
Three and four
None
Students should still do only light techniques.
Five and six
Concentrate on good stances and proper technique. Don't get in a hurry, be patient in your practice.
Five and six
Concentrate on good stances and proper technique. Don't get in a hurry, be patient in your practice.
Six
Be very careful in all basic techniques. Speed and power will come later. Have strong concentration on good stances.
Six and Seven, with related throwing drills
Naihanchi Oyo Bunkai
Students now learn new things at a slower pace, concentrating on improving the things that they already know.
Eight and Nine
Students should be blocking and kicking a little harder at this point. Students should also continue to concentrate on good stances.
Ten
Students should have good basic techniques at this point, still concentrate on details.
Eleven and Twelve
Begin free sparring, only under the supervision of 7th Dan or above.
Students must be disciplined and self-motivated in order to steadily improve themselves.
Thirteen and Fourteen
Moderate free sparring, only under the supervision of 7th Dan or above.
Students must be disciplined and self-motivated in order to steadily improve themselves.
Review and improve all the basics that you have learned so far and concentrate on good technique.
Fifteen and Sixteen
Advanced free sparring, only under the supervision of 7th Dan or above.
Students should now be conditioned and able to block, kick, and punch with solid technique.
Work on variations of what you have learned, try different combinations.
Understand that Kumite are just drills that you can work on adapting to your own particular body. Try new combinations and new variations.
Advanced free sparring, at the student's discretion.
To understand real karate you must realize that only now have you acquired the skill to become a true student of karate; now the real work begins.
Intense free sparring, with control.
Create your own.
It is important to be humble and realize that there is always more to learn, and always room to improve. Minimum of two years of training after receiving Sho Dan.
Minimum of three years of training after receiving Ni Dan.
Minimum of three years of training after receiving San Dan.
Minimum of four years of training after receiving Yon Dan.
Train or assist in instructing students to the level of 1st Dan.
Train or assist in instructing students to the level of 2nd Dan.
Train or assist in instructing students to the level of 5th Dan.
Minimum age of 55 years, with 40 years of continual practice.
Train or assist in instructing students to the level of 9th Dan.
Minimum age of 70 years, with 50 years of continual practice.