About belt testing
The CNGK curriculum is split into coloured belt levels to show progression of skills and knowledge. We use the testing dates as target for students to work towards an achievable goal. The first opportunity to be tested is after 3 months of training as a white belt, Grading days are typically scheduled in June or December of each year. Sensei Barb adjudicates all kyu belt gradings at Elora Karate Dojo.
Coloured belt candidates will be asked to perform their rank requirements in a formal setting. If they are unable to perform their rank requirements at the appropriate level, they will be asked to re-test at a later date.
Stripe ranks are offered to junior students who have good attendance, but are only able to perform partial requirements. Stripe gradings are optional, but they can be a good way to motivate students who take longer to progress than their peers.
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Practice sheets:
Prepare for your test
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Practice your kata. Find some time each day to go through your kata in the week before your test. The more kata requirements you have, the more you need to practice.
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Show up to your grading dressed and ready to go for the assigned time.
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You must be in proper uniform. Please review the dress code in advance.
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There are no spectators permitted in the dojo during the test. Family members may attend the belt ceremony which is usually held on a different day following the belt test.
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Title | Minimum requirement | Image |
|---|---|---|
Shodan or Shodan-ho | ||
First Kyu | Two classes per week for at least 6 months as a Brown Belt. Regular attendance at Kobudo class. | |
Brown Belt | Two classes per week for at least 10 months as an Blue Belt. Regular attendance at Kobudo class. | |
Blue Belt | Two classes per week for at least 8 months as an Green Belt. Regular attendance at Kobudo class. | |
Green Belt | Two classes per week for at least 6 months as an Orange Belt. Regular attendance at Kobudo class. | |
Orange Green Stripe | Two classes per week for at least 6 months as an Orange Belt. | |
Orange Belt | Two classes per week for at least 5 months as a Yellow Belt | |
Yellow Orange Stripe | Two classes per week for at least 5 months as a Yellow Belt | |
Yellow Belt | Two classes per week for at least 3 months | |
White Yellow Stripe | Two classes per week for at least 3 months |