The 'kyu' grades represent the techniques that must be progressively and collectively mastered to achieve black belt level. However, black belt is only the beginning of Karate mastery, not the end. Because the future of the art depends upon producing well-trained and dedicated instructors, one of the aims of the Ko-do Ryu Karate Renmei (Classical Karate Association) is to produce outstanding, committed black belts.

Because grading should provide positive and rewarding experiences, students are informally assessed before being entered for formal grading. This prevents students being entered for grades they can not achieve. Students with a class attendance of less than 90% will not be entered for black belt assessment.

Note: Some of the following terms will be unknown to you. However, as your training unfolds they will become familiar

9th, 8th and 7th kyu grades are for juniors only. 6th Kyu is the first grade taken by a senior (adult)

9th kyu: red belt: knowledge of the safety rules and performance of the warm-up exercises
8th kyu: yellow belt: Ten-no Kata
7th kyu: orange belt: sparring

6th kyu grade and the grades above are for both juniors and seniors

6th kyu: green belt: Sanchin solo kata
5th kyu: blue belt: Sanchin applications
4th kyu: purple belt: Rokushu solo kata
3rd kyu: brown belt: Rokushu applications
2nd kyu: brown belt: Naihanchin solo kata section one
1st kyu: brown belt: Naihanchin solo kata section two

1st dan: black belt: Naihanchin complete solo kata
2nd dan: sequential Naihanchin application
3rd dan: demonstration of 'variations' from the two 'lock up' positions in Naihanchin

Note: it will usually be a requirement that 3rd dan applicants be prepared to teach Ko-do Ryu Karate

4th dan: may be applied for four years after third dan
5th dan: may be applied for five years after fourth dan

The final grade is referred to as (the) Menkyo - the traditional 'all passed-on' certificate of mastery. This is an awarded grade.