Karatekas wearing different colored belts (White, Yellow, Green, Blue, Red, Brown, Black)
In 1924 Gichin Funakoshi, founder of Shotokan Karate, adopted the Dan system from the Judo founder Jigoro Kano using a rank scheme with a limited set of belt colors. Other Okinawan teachers also adopted this practice. In the Kyu/Dan system the beginner grades start with a higher numbered kyū (e.g., 10th Kyū or Jukyū) and progress toward a lower numbered kyū. The Dan progression continues from 1st Dan (Shodan, or ‘beginning dan’) to the higher dan grades. Kyū-grade karateka are referred to as “color belt” or mudansha (“ones without dan/rank”). Dan-grade karateka are referred to as yudansha (holders of dan/rank). Yudansha typically wear a Black Belt. Normally, the first five to six dans are given by examination by superior dan holders, while the subsequent (7 and up) are honorary, given for special merits and/or age reached. Requirements of rank differ among styles, organizations, and schools. Kyū ranks stress stance, balance, and coordination. Speed and power are added at higher grades.
Minimum age and time in rank are factors affecting promotion. Testing consists of demonstration of techniques before a panel of examiners. This will vary by school, but testing may include everything learned at that point, or just new information. The demonstration is an application for new rank (shinsa) and may include kata, bunkai, self-defense, routines, tameshiwari (breaking), and kumite (sparring). (Source Wikipedia)
Belt Gradation Advisory Notification: 1500 Hours Course.
White Belt:
Beginner
Yellow Belt:
Minimum 100 hours of Training under Expert’s Supervision (2 hours a day, 5 days a week for 10 weeks of practice). Must be friendly with co-players/Instructors.
Orange Belt:
Minimum 100 hours of Training under Expert’s Supervision plus Championships (2 hours a day, 5 days a week for 10 weeks of practice). Must be disciplined with co-players/Instructors.
Green Belt:
Minimum 150 hours of Training under Expert’s Supervision plus Championships (2 hours a day, 5 days a week for 15 weeks of practice). Must be friendly and disciplined with players/Instructors.
Blue Belt:
Minimum 150 hours of Training under Expert’s Supervision plus up to National level Championships & Seminars (2 hours a day, 5 days a week for 15 weeks of practice). Respectful and Friendly with others.
Red Belt:
Minimum 200 hours of Training under Expert’s Supervision plus National and International Level Championships& Seminars(2 hours a day, 5 days a week for 20 weeks of practice). Respectful and Friendly with others.
Brown Belt:
Minimum 300 hours of Training under Expert’s Supervision plus National and International Level Championships, Seminars and Trainer/Mentor (2 hours a day, 5 days a week for 30 weeks of practice). No Disciplinary Action(s) and No Criminal background in past Six months of the Brown Belt Exam.
Black Belt: Graduate (1st Dan)
Minimum 400 hours of Training under Expert’s Supervision plus National and International Level Championships, Seminars plus 100 hours as Trainer/Mentor (2 hours a day, 5 days a week for 40 weeks of practice). No Disciplinary Action(s) and No Criminal background in past Twelve months of the Black Belt Exam.