Riverbend Karate & Terwillegar Karate & Windermere Karate Grading
2023 2024 Season: Grading
In Japan, there is a white belt, and after many years of training, a student may be awarded a black belt. In the western mind, immediate gratification is a strong part of the culture, and consequently a series of colored belts and striped belts has been introduced in Canada.
Keep in mind that as you go up in rank, it is going to take more than one term to move up to the next level, because you have to know what you've learned previously and have refined it to an even higher standard, as well as meet the new requirements for the next level.
The grading ceremony will occur at the Head Sensei's discretion, normally once a year, but, for colored belts, it is not like a final at school. You are watched and evaluated at each class, and not against the person next to you, but on the requirements and your potential. You must give your all every class, not just at grading time. Showing up for every class does not mean you will automatically grade to the next level. Attendance at Alberta workshops and tournaments is expected to improve your skill set. Your attitude, improved skill levels, appropriate proficiency of required kata(s), as well as attendance, is all taken into consideration. Colored belts are normally held a minimum of 1 to 2 seasons, and brown an absolute minimum of 3 years.
Black Belt grading is by invitation only, traditionally the first weekend in May, and is in strict examination format with evaluation by senior federation members annually.The minimum age for grading to black is generally 18.All applicants must have previously participated in, and have recorded attendance at at least one other black belt grading.
2023 2024 Season
New students are welcome anytime in regular season to try a class.