Belt/Rank Testing Information

Ninja Program

I. Testing for Ninjas Belt/Rank

The Japan Karate-Do Genbu-Kai of Florida has regularly scheduled belt/rank every eight (8) weeks for this group. Actual test dates will be posted.

The Ninja program is an entirely "in-house" program, offered only by Florida Genbu-Kai Karate. Its main purpose is to introduce children ages 4 to 6, to the fundamentals of Karate training, along with preparing them for the advancement into the Junior Karate program. The ranking system, and requirements for this program, were developed internally within Florida Genbu-Kai, and are not affiliated nor recognized by the Japan Karate-Do Genbu-Kai International.

II. Testing Criteria

Testing at this level, measures the knowledge learned in the eight skill levels taught to the Ninjas.

1. Focus
2. Teamwork
3. Control
4. Balance
5. Memory
6. Discipline
7. Fitness
8. Coordination

At the beginner level, the Ninja’s must demonstrate their basic skills learned with a 5 – 10 count rep. At the intermediate level, a 10 - 20 count rep will be required, and at the advanced level, the requirements increase to 15 - 25 count reps.

In order for Ninja’s to test, they must have obtained ALL eight skill stripes. If a student has missed a stripe level, and there is time to make it up before the next scheduled testing, then the Ninja may test. Otherwise, they will have to wait until the next scheduled test date. Also, the Ninja’s must have a Ninja uniform.

III. Ninja Class Overview

The Ninja program is a preparatory course for young children before introducing them to the junior karate program. Ages for this program are from 4 - 6 years old, whereas the junior karate program starts at 7 years old. Hence, few actual karate moves are taught at the beginner level, however simple karate moves are taught within the intermediate and advanced ranks.

Average time within the Ninja program from 9th kyu through 1st kyu is approximately 1.5 years. This will vary depending on the child’s attendance during the course, and if they are able to attend the regularly scheduled testing.

If a Ninja turns seven (7) before they finish the Ninja program, they may advance to the junior karate program sooner. However, they will have to start over as a white belt again, although time at this level should be minimal with their prior experience.

Junior & Adult Programs

I. Annual Testing for Juniors & Adults Belt/Rank

The Japan Karate-Do Genbu-Kai of Florida has regularly scheduled belt/rank tests at the end of the months of January, April, July and October. Actual test dates will be posted. Individuals testing for their first rank/belt may be tested early dependent on the recommendation of the chief instructor.

II. Testing Criteria

Testing measures your knowledge and level of technical proficiency of karate. It is intended as an evaluation of your progress and knowledge. It is not intended to identify whether an individual does "good or bad" karate.

Each test will evaluate your knowledge and proficiency in kihon (basics), kata (form) and kumite (sparring). Except for 9th Kyu, which only evaluates kihon and kata. It also evaluates your manners, attitude and respect for others and yourself.

Testing evaluates the technical correctness of stances, blocks, kicks and strikes as well as speed, power, focus, balance, kiai, rhythm, concentration, direction, spirit, coordination, movement and control.

Grading System

Kyu Level	Adult Belt	Junior Belt	Belt Time Required
Beginner Kyu Gai	White belt	White belt	Minimum three months
Ku (9th) kyu	White belt, 1 stripe, & Genbu-Kai patch	Yellow belt & Genbu-Kai patch	Minimum three months
Hachi (8th) kyu	Orange belt	Yellow belt, 1 stripe	Minimum three months
Shichi (7th) kyu	Orange belt, 1 stripe	Yellow belt, 2 stripes	Minimum three months
Roku (6th) kyu	Green belt, 1st degree	Purple belt	Minimum six months
Go (5th) kyu	Green belt, 2nd degree	Purple belt, 1 stripe	Minimum six months
Yon (4th) kyu	Green belt, 3rd degree	Purple belt, 2 stripes	Minimum six months
San (3rd) kyu	Brown belt, 1st degree	Blue belt	Minimum six months
Ni (2nd) kyu	Brown belt, 2nd degree	Blue belt, 1 stripe	Minimum six months
Ichi (1st) kyu	Brown belt, 3rd degree	Blue belt, 2 stripes	Minimum six months
Shodan - Ho	Black belt	Red belt	Minimum twelve months
Shodan - Ho	-	Red belt, 1 stripe	Minimum three months
Shodan - Ho	-	Red belt, 2 stripes	Minimum three months
Sho (1st) Dan	Black belt, with name (kanji)	Red belt, with name (kanji)	Minimum six months

All examinations are given at the discretion of the instructor. The time required indicated above is the minimum training time required providing regular attendance (minimum 75%) is maintained. All kyu examinations are conducted by the head instructor of the Japan Karate-Do Genbu-Kai of Florida, Sensei Keith Moore. All dan (black/red belt) gradings are conducted exclusively by Shihan Fumio Demura, President/Chief Instructor of Japan Karate-Do Genbu-Kai International.