our ranking system
A ranking system identifies a student's current stage within the curriculum. It helps instructors understand each student’s development and allows students to track their progress, often building self-respect. While rank can serve as a catalyst for growth, we encourage students not to become overly focused on it. The true goal of training lies in the continuous improvement of technique and skill.
"Students are not to ask when they will get their next rank.
Instead, they are encouraged to inquire about what they need to work on."
Our system features four primary belt ranks: White, Green, Brown, and Black. Each of these ranks is further divided by stripes that mark progress within the level. (Note that other schools might include additional belt colors between the main ranks.) Beginners start at the 10th class, known as Ju-kyu, and advance by progressing down to 1st class—the final stage before earning a black belt. After achieving black belt, students move through degrees (dan), beginning with Shodan (1st degree), and continue advancing up through the ranks.
Senior Ranks (teens & adults)
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Sho-dan (1st degree) marks the beginning of a new journey. At this level, the student is considered to be starting over—advancing through the ranks from 1st degree to 2nd, 3rd, and beyond. The 10th degree is the highest attainable rank and is typically bestowed posthumously in recognition of the lifelong contributions of 9th degree masters.
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Junior Ranks (ages 5 to 12)
Junior ranks follow the same curriculum and practice the same techniques as their senior counterparts. To better support younger students, additional ranks were introduced, offering more stepping stones through their training. These extra steps are designed to encourage consistent progress, and build confidence by celebrating achievement. They serve as fractional stages between the corresponding senior ranks.
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In our system, young children do not progress directly to black belt. A junior ich-kyu (1st class) may be promoted to the corresponding senior rank upon demonstrating the appropriate level of maturity. From there, they begin preparing for black belt advancement. (To date, the youngest student to achieve this milestone was 16 years old.)
All students are trained to become instructors. This enhances comprehension, ability, and develops leadership skills. All black belts in our dojo are teachers and have earned the title, sensei. By stepping into the role of sensei, one has the opportunity for continued growth and learning through the act of teaching others.
All students are trained to become instructors. This enhances comprehension, ability, and develops leadership skills. All black belts in our dojo are teachers and have earned the title, sensei. By stepping into the role of sensei, one has the opportunity for continued growth and learning through the act of teaching others.
