A series of colored belts is one of the most iconic symbols of progress in the study of karate. Different styles of karate teach different basics, techniques and skills at different times -- and some teach different things entirely. Nearly all karate styles have at least one set routine -- called a kata -- for each belt level. Demonstrating proficiency with this kata is one of the requirements for advancement. Like nearly everything else in martial arts, there is a right way and a wrong way to go about this.
Step 1
Attend class regularly to learn the movements of the kata routine for your belt level.
Step 2
Review your kata at least once before leaving at the end of class. If you haven't learned the whole kata, review the sections you covered in class during that session. If possible, check it with a teacher or advanced student.
Step 3
Practice your kata several times every day you don't attend class. Keep track in a journal of any points where you forget or have trouble. Review those points with a teacher or mentor the next time you are back in the dojo.
Step 4
Check your dojo's calendar for upcoming rank testing events. Once you can run your kata from start to finish without pausing to think, check with your sensei to see if he thinks you are ready to test.
Step 5
Focus on ever finer points as you polish and practice your test. Begin by focusing on gross motor moves like the order of stances, punches and blocks. Then focus in on joint position, breathing and angles. Finally work on direction of energy, intention of motion and visualizing the effect of the moves you make.
Step 6
Perform any student duties associated with rank testing. In some dojos, this might include community service, paying a testing fee or getting endorsements from a teacher or mentor.
Tips and Warnings
- Most dojos have requirements for each belt that go beyond just the kata routines. As you train for your next belt, keep your progress on these other requirements balanced with your kata practice. This way, everything will be ready at once and your sensei will be more likely to slate you for the next rank test.
References
- Dave Coffman; martial arts instructor; Hillsboro, Oregon
- "Zen in the Martial Arts;" Joel Hyams; 1982
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