Graduations

Sistema de Graduações do Karaté - Kyu e Dan

Martial arts from Japan and Okinawa feature a variety of titles and grading classes. The current system of coloured belts is the most widely accepted. Before this, many different methods were used to mark the various levels of practitioners.

The current system governing Karate, using Kyu (class) and Dan (degree), was founded by Jigoro Kano, founder of Judo Kodokan. Kano was an educator and understood people, knowing that many need encouragement immediately after beginning a martial art. The anxiety of this type of practitioner could not be satisfied with only long-term goals.

Kyu and Dan Grading System

System founded by Jigoro Kano, founder of Judo Kodokan

Created to provide immediate encouragement for those starting martial arts practice

The anxiety of practitioners could not be satisfied only with long-term goals

Symbolism of the Colours

In this colour classification and on a symbolic level:

White means the purity of the beginner

Black refers to the refined knowledge gained after years of training

Belt Colours by Grade

White – Beginner
Yellow – First knowledge
Orange – Basic development
Green – Technical growth
Blue – Advancement
Brown – Preparation for black belt
Black – Refined knowledge

Kyu Grades (Class)

Kyu grades represent student levels, normally identified by coloured belts

Count down to black belt

Dan Grades (Degree)

In the black belt classification, the first is called 1st Dan, the second 2nd Dan and so on in ascending order up to 10th Dan, attainable only by exemplary masters who have dedicated their lives to Karate.

1º
1st Dan – First degree black belt
2º
2nd Dan – Second degree black belt
3º
3rd Dan – Third degree black belt
4º
4th Dan – Fourth degree black belt
5º
5th Dan – Fifth degree black belt
6º
6th Dan – Sixth degree black belt
7º
7th Dan – Seventh degree black belt
8º
8th Dan – Eighth degree black belt
9º
9th Dan – Ninth degree black belt
10º
10th Dan – Tenth degree – Attainable only by exemplary masters

Dedication Time

The grading system recognises the time and dedication required to master Karate

Each grade represents a stage in the karateka’s journey

The highest grades are attainable only by masters who have dedicated their lives to Karate

Karate Grades | Kyu and Dan System | ASKKSA Shotokan Madeira