Test Etiquette / Information

5 HEIAN KATA

Yellow – HEIAN SHODAN

Orange – HEIAN NIDAN

Blue – HEIAN SANDAN

Green – HEIAN YODAN

Purple – HEIAN GODAN

Brown

We use the traditional Japanese Kyu/Dan ranking system:

• Kyu (級) represents “levels” for under belts (white through brown).
• Dan (段) refers to “degrees” of black belt.

Kyu ranks count downward (⇩) — the lower the number, the higher the rank.
Dan ranks count upward (⇧) — the higher the number, the higher the rank.

For example, a 1-Kyu brown belt (with 5 tips) is eligible for the pre-black belt test.
Remember: A black belt does not mean “expert.” The title Shodan means “beginning degree.” It’s a major milestone—like graduating high school—but afterward, the real learning begins (like entering college).

Dojo Evaluation Criteria

Exams at our dojo are influenced by a variety of factors—not simply pass/fail checklists. These include:

• Minimum curriculum requirements (Kihon / Kata)
• Technical execution (Martial Arts)
• Character development (Martial Way)
• Vocabulary / History knowledge
• Class attendance
• Intensity and effort
• Physical or cognitive abilities / disabilities
• Maturity
• Private lessons
• Kumite (sparring) — in-class evaluation (required to advance to intermediate levels)

Timing Between Tests

• The standard time between tests is 4 months.
• This is only a minimum — some students need additional time to prepare, and that’s part of the journey.
• If Sensei or your private instructor feels you’re not ready, there is no penalty for delaying your test.
• Karate is a lifelong journey—there’s no rush.
• If you receive an automated email about testing, it means you are eligible, not required, to test.

Minimum Requirements

Learning higher-level katas is admirable—but not if it comes at the expense of your current rank’s requirements.
Knowing a higher kata does not make you eligible for the belt it corresponds to. These are considered bonus material.

Kata is only one factor in the test. You must:

• Maintain strong basics (kihon)
• Focus on the “short list” of requirements specific to your rank

This list often determines whether a retest is needed.
Additional tools such as private lessons, kata class, and Saturday class can help you accelerate. High-level kumite may also influence promotion (at Shihan’s discretion).

Progression Path

The journey from White → Yellow → Orange → (novice ranks) varies, especially between adults/teens and Ninjas. While skipping stripes is possible, it’s not the norm.

Even if you know the “technical” material, remember: progression is a marathon, not a sprint.

Scoring System

• Each test typically represents a ½-point (stripe) of progression.
• Jumping from white directly to yellow equals a 1–full point (skipping yellow stripe).
• A 1-full point is the maximum allowed on any test.
• We do not straddle stripes (e.g., you won’t go from yellow stripe to orange stripe).
• The goal is to earn the solid belt.
• Adequate time is needed to develop maturity and character.

Don’t Compare Progress

Your journey is individual—you vs. yourself.
Students with limitations, chronic injuries, or disabilities are evaluated based on effort, attitude, and determination (what we call “will over skill”).
These traits can outweigh technical proficiency in certain cases.

Sparring Guidelines

• Sparring may begin after earning a basic yellow stripe (i.e., passing the white belt test).
• Students as young as 4 years old may participate.
• Sparring is recommended by Orange belt.
• Sparring experience is required to at the Intermediate (Blue Belt) level.
• See Sensei Bill for equipment and class details.

 Intro-Ninjas (Beginners)

• Solid white belts who take optional private lessons can earn a yellow belt by learning Heian #1 (the first kata).
• This kata is not taught in the Intro class and is not required for the white belt with yellow stripe.

Line-Up Etiquette

• In Ninja classes, students line up by belt color (ascending order).
• Within the same belt color, there is no specific order.
• In Intermediate or Adult classes, students line up by individual test performance.
• Highest-scoring students are called out last and may lead their group. This order can change after each test.

Tournament Notes

• Your belt or kata may determine your tournament division: Novice, Intermediate, or Advanced.
• Performing kata #4 means you must enter the Intermediate or Advanced division.
• It’s okay to stay the course and gain experience before moving up.
• Always discuss these decisions with Sensei.

Intermediate Ranks (Blue ⇆ Green)

• Belts may include two tips (stripes).
• A full point earns 2 tips at once—rare and typically reserved for:
  • Experienced martial artists (e.g., black belts in another style)
  • Adults
  • Subject to Shihan’s discretion

     

    Blue Belts (intermediate level), the student must:

    • Participate in sparring class
    • Be enrolled in at least 2 classes per week

Advanced Ranks (Purple ⇆ Brown)

• Students at these levels do not skip tips—each is critical for learning and development.
• Be enrolled in 3x classes per week membership.

 Perspective

Sensei Bill Jr. and Gabby never skipped a single belt or stripe. They earned every level in succession.
Follow their lead: Take it one step at a time and enjoy the journey.

Test Outcomes

• Pass: Congratulations! Results are typically given one week after the test during class.
• Fail: Did not meet the minimum requirements. Students must wait for the next test cycle. A discussion with Sensei will determine the preparation timeline.
• Retest: Most of the test was passed, but a specific area needs improvement. Retests may occur within 2 weeks after a consultation.
  • Often, one private lesson can resolve the issue.
  • There is no fee for a retest, and rank is promoted immediately afterward.

Testing Etiquette

• Wear a full gi (no t-shirts), clean and ironed
• Bring water (raise your hand to use it)
• Pre-pay before the test
• If you miss your scheduled test, you can:
  • Reschedule a private test (with a private lesson fee), or
  • Join the next group test at no additional charge

 Expedited Testing

If a student shows exceptional maturity or skill, they may be eligible for an expedited test (less than 4 months).
This is rare and only happens through nomination by a senior black belt.
It is not polite to ask—it will happen organically if earned.

Tests Must Demonstrate:

• Zentensity
• The 6-Shin (six mindsets of martial excellence)