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Kyu Grades





Overview

Senior gradings are about standards, depth and consistency. They’re not a rite of passage — they’re a professional check of your Wado skillset: mechanics, mindset and etiquette under pressure.

You’ll only be invited when the coaches are confident you’re ready. Expect precise criteria, clean execution, and clear feedback. Come prepared, on time, and switched on — we’ll meet you there with the same energy.

It’s serious, but it should also feel satisfying: you’ve put the work in — this is where you show it.

  • Invitation based on consistent attendance, coach sign-off and readiness.
  • Technical checks include kihon under fatigue, kata detail & applicable kumite.
  • Dojo etiquette matters: punctual, clean gi, correct belt, nails short, jewellery removed/taped.
  • SKF licence must be current for grading & insurance; bring it on the day.

Senior Grade Pathway

Advanced Kyu → Dan grades. Focus shifts from “what” to how and why: pressure-tested kihon, functional bunkai, smart kumite, coaching mindset and steady dojo leadership.

What to expect

  • Kihon: precision under pace; balance, breath and intent.
  • Kata: detail, rhythm, application (bunkai) and composure.
  • Kumite: control, timing and appropriate contact; ringcraft & awareness.
  • Conduct: lead by example; support juniors; uphold dojo standards.

Grading day

  • Arrive early, warm up, check equipment (gumshield, mitts, shin/instep as required).
  • Clean gi, tidy belt, nails short, jewellery removed/taped; hair secured.
  • Bring SKF licence, water, and any medical items you may need.
  • Listen well, answer clearly, accept feedback professionally.

Belt Syllabus

White Belt   White Belt
  • Seniors Starting as a White Belt

    Embarking on your karate journey as a senior student is an exciting and empowering step, symbolized by wearing the White Belt. This belt represents a blank slate—full of potential, ready to absorb knowledge and grow. Regardless of your age or previous experience, starting as a White Belt is a significant and respected part of the martial arts tradition.

    At the Jewel Karate Club, we recognize the courage it takes to begin something new, and we are committed to supporting you every step of the way. Our training emphasise the values of perseverance, discipline, and respect, guiding you as you build a solid foundation in karate techniques and philosophy.

    As a White Belt, you’ll develop essential skills and gain confidence, preparing you for progression through the Kyu grades. Remember, every black belt was once a White Belt—it’s not just where you start, but the dedication and effort you invest that defines your journey.

    We look forward to helping you take those first steps and celebrating each achievement as you move forward in your martial arts path.

    Welcome to the Jewel Karate Club family!
Yellow Belt Yellow Belt   8 Kyu - Yellow Belt - Yellow Tab
    Kihon, Tsuki & Keri (Basic Techniques)
  • Junzuki turn in Jodan (high level) Uke (Straight punch, head block L & R)
  • Gyakuzuki turn in Gedan (low level) Barai (Opposite punch, rear block L & R)
  • Maegeri (Front Kick)
  • Surikomi Maegeri (One step front kick)
  • Mawashigeri (Roundhouse kick)

    • Renraku Waza (Combination Techniques)
  • Maegeri Chudan - Tobikomizuki (Front kick - snap punch)
  • Surikomi Maegeri - Tobikomizuki (One step front kick - snap punch)
  • Maegeri Chudan - Gyakuzuki (Front kick - opposite punch)
  • Surikomi Maegeri - Gyakuzuki (One step front kick - opposite punch)

    • Block (Blocks)
  • Chudan Soto (outside) Uke - Maegeri (front kick) Gyakuzuki (middle outer block - opposite punch) ipponme block video
  • Chudan Uchi (inside) Uke - Empi (middle inner block - opposite punch) ipponme block video

    • Go Shin Jutsu (Self Defence)
  • Technique Ipponme (1)
  • Technique Nihonme (2)
Orange Belt Orange Belt   7 Kyu - Orange Belt - Orange Tab
    Kihon, Tsuki & Keri (Basic Techniques)
  • Junzuki No Tsukkomi
  • Gyakuzuki No Tsukkomi
  • Sokuto Chudan (mid level)

    • Renraku Waza (Combination Techniques)
  • Maegeri - Mawashigeri - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)
  • Surikomi Maegeri - Mawashigeri - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)

    • Block (Blocks)
  • Chudan Uke Soto - Maegeri (front kick) Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)
  • Chudan Uke Uchi - Empi (elbow strike)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Ipponme (1) - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Nihonme (2) - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)

    • Kata (Form)
  • Pinan Nidan

    • Go Shin Jutsu (Self Defence)
  • Technique Nihonme (2)
  • Technique Sanbonme (3)
Green Belt Green Belt   6 Kyu - Green Belt - Green Tab
    Kihon, Tsuki & Keri (Basic Techniques)
  • Kette Junzuki (lunge punch)
  • Kette Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)
  • Tobikomizuki
  • Surikomi Mawashigeri (roundhouse kick) Chudan (mid level)
  • Surikomi Sokuto Chudan (mid level)

    • Renraku Waza (Combination Techniques)
  • Maegeri - Sokuto - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)
  • Surikomi Maegeri - Sokuto - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)

    • Block (Blocks)
  • Jodan Uke Ipponme (1)
  • Jodan Uke Nihonme (2)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Gohonme (5)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Ropponme (6)

    • Kata (Form)
  • Pinan Shodan
  • Pinan Shodan

    • Ohyo Gumite (Semi-Free Fighting)
  • Ohyo Gumite Ipponme (1)

    • Go Shin Jutsu (Self Defence)
  • Technique Sanbonme (3)
  • Technique Yohonme (4)

    • Ji Yu Kumite (Free Fighting)
  • Free Fighting
Blue Belt Blue Belt   5 Kyu - Blue Belt - Blue Tab
    Kihon, Tsuki & Keri (Basic Techniques)
  • Kette Junzuki (lunge punch)
  • Kette Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)
  • Kette Junzuki (lunge punch) No Tsukkomi
  • Kette Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) No Tsukkomi
  • Nagashizuki
  • Ushirogeri Chudan (mid level)
  • Sokuto Chudan (mid level)

    • Renraku Waza (Combination Techniques)
  • Mawashigeri - Ushirogeri - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) Chudan (mid level)
  • Surikomi Sokuto - Ushirogeri - Uraken (backfist strike) Jodan (high level)

    • Block (Blocks)
  • Chudan Uke Soto (outside)
  • Chudan Uke Uchi (inside)
  • Jodan Uke Sanbonme (3)
  • Jodan Uke Yohonme (4)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Sanbonme (3)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Yohonme (4)

    • Kata (Form)
  • Pinan Shodan
  • Pinan Yondan

    • Ohyo Gumite (Semi-Free Fighting)
  • Ohyo Gumite Nihonme (2)

    • Go Shin Jutsu (Self Defence)
  • Technique Yohonme (4)
  • Technique Gohonme (5)

    • Ji Yu Kumite (Free Fighting)
  • Free Fighting
Purple Belt Purple Belt   4 Kyu - Purple Belt - Purple Tab
    Kihon, Tsuki & Keri (Basic Techniques)
  • Kette Junzuki (lunge punch)
  • Kette Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)
  • Kette Junzuki (lunge punch) No Tsukkomi
  • Kette Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) No Tsukkomi
  • Nagashizuki
  • Mawashigeri Chudan (mid level)
  • Ushirogeri Chudan (mid level)
  • Sokuto Chudan (mid level)

    • Renraku Waza (Combination Techniques)
  • Maegeri Chudan - Nagashizuki (sliding punch) Jodan - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) Chudan (mid level)
  • Surikomi Maegeri (front kick) Chudan - Nagashizuki (sliding punch) Jodan - Mawashigeri (roundhouse kick) Chudan (mid level)
  • Maegeri Chudan - Sokuto Chudan - Ushirogeri (back kick) Chudan - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) Chudan (mid level)

    • Block (Blocks)
  • Chudan Uke Soto (outside)
  • Chudan Uke Uchi (inside)
  • Jodan Uke Ipponme (1)
  • Jodan Uke Sanbonme (3)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Yohonme (4)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Gohonme (5)

    • Kata (Form)
  • Pinan Yondan
  • Pinan Godan

    • Ohyo Gumite (Semi-Free Fighting)
  • Ohyo Gumite Sanbonme (3)

    • Go Shin Jutsu (Self Defence)
  • Technique Gohonme (5)
  • Technique Ropponme (6)

    • Ji Yu Kumite (Free Fighting)
  • Free Fighting
Brown Belt Brown Belt   3 Kyu - 1st Brown Belt - 1st Red Tab
    Kihon, Tsuki & Keri (Basic Techniques)
  • Kette Junzuki (lunge punch)
  • Kette Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)
  • Kette Junzuki (lunge punch) No Tsukkomi
  • Kette Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) No Tsukkomi
  • Tobikomizuki
  • Nagashizuki
  • Mawashigeri Jodan (high level)
  • Ushirogeri Chudan (mid level)
  • Sokuto Chudan (mid level)
  • Surikomi Ushiro Mawashigeri (roundhouse kick) Jodan (high level)

    • Renraku Waza (Combination Techniques)
  • Surikomi Maegeri (front kick) Chudan - Mawashigeri (roundhouse kick) Chudan - Ushirogeri (back kick) Chudan - Uraken (backfist strike) Jodan (high level)
  • Maegeri Chudan - Nagashizuki (sliding punch) Jodan - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) Chudan - Mawashigeri (roundhouse kick) Chudan (mid level)
  • Surikomi Maegeri (front kick) Chudan - Sokuto Chudan - Ushirogeri (back kick) Chudan - Uraken (backfist strike) Jodan (high level)

    • Block (Blocks)
  • Jodan Uke Nihonme (2)
  • Jodan Uke Yohonme (4)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Ipponme (1)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Sanbonme (3)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Gohonme(5)

    • Kata (Form)
  • Kushanku
  • One Pinan Kata Chosen on the Day

    • Ohyo Gumite (Semi-Free Fighting)
  • Ohyo Gumite Ipponme (1)
  • Ohyo Gumite Nihonme (2)
  • Ohyo Gumite Yohonme (4)

    • Kihon Gumite (Arranged Free Fighting)
  • Kihon Gumite Ipponme (1)

    • Go Shin Jutsu (Self Defence)
  • Two Techniques Chosen on the Day

    • Ji Yu Kumite (Free Fighting)
  • Free Fighting
Brown Belt Brown Belt   2 Kyu - 2nd Brown Belt - 2nd Red Tab
    Kihon, Tsuki & Keri (Basic Techniques)
  • Kette Junzuki (lunge punch)
  • Kette Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)
  • Kette Junzuki (lunge punch) No Tsukkomi
  • Kette Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) No Tsukkomi
  • Nagashizuki
  • Mawashigeri Jodan (high level)
  • Ushirogeri Chudan (mid level)
  • Sokuto Jodan (high level)
  • Surikomi Ushiro Mawashigeri (roundhouse kick) Jodan (high level)

    • Renraku Waza (Combination Techniques)
  • Surikomi Maegeri (front kick) Chudan - Nagashizuki (sliding punch) Jodan - Mawashigeri (roundhouse kick) Jodan (high level)
  • Maegeri Chudan - Sokuto Chudan - Ushirogeri (back kick) Chudan - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) Chudan (mid level)
  • Zenshinshitte Jodan - Renzuki Chudan - Surikomi Maegeri (front kick) Chudan - Mawashigeri (roundhouse kick) Chudan - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) Chudan (mid level)

    • Block (Blocks)
  • Chudan Uke Soto (outside)
  • Chudan Uke Uchi (inside)
  • Jodan Uke Ipponme (1)
  • Jodan Uke Yohonme (4)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Nihonme (2)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Yohonme (4)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Ropponme (6)

    • Kata (Form)
  • Kushanku
  • One Pinan Kata Chosen on the Day

    • Ohyo Gumite (Semi-Free Fighting)
  • Ohyo Gumite Sanbonme (3)
  • Ohyo Gumite Yohonme (4)
  • Ohyo Gumite Gohonme (5)

    • Kihon Gumite (Arranged Free Fighting)
  • Kihon Gumite Nihonme (2)

    • Go Shin Jutsu (Self Defence)
  • Two Techniques Chosen on the Day

    • Ji Yu Kumite (Free Fighting)
  • Free Fighting
Brown Belt Brown Belt   1 Kyu - 3rd Brown Belt - Black Tab
    Kihon, Tsuki & Keri (Basic Techniques)
  • Kette Junzuki (lunge punch)
  • Kette Gyakuzuki (reverse punch)
  • Kette Junzuki (lunge punch) No Tsukkomi
  • Kette Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) No Tsukkomi
  • Nagashizuki
  • Mawashigeri Jodan (high level)
  • Surikomi Mawashigeri (roundhouse kick) Jodan (high level)
  • Ushirogeri Chudan (mid level)
  • Surikomi Sokuto Jodan (high level)
  • Surikomi Ushiro Mawashigeri (roundhouse kick) Jodan (high level)

    • Renraku Waza (Combination Techniques)
  • Zenshinshitte Jodan - Renzuki Chudan - Maegeri (front kick) Chudan - Mawashigeri (roundhouse kick) Chudan - Ushirogeri (back kick) Chudan - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) Chudan (mid level)
  • Surikomi Jodan - Renzuki Chudan - Surikomi Maegeri (front kick) Chudan - Mawashigeri (roundhouse kick) Chudan - Ushirogeri - Uraken (backfist strike) Jodan (high level)
  • Zenshinshitte Jodan - Renzuki Chudan - Maegeri (front kick) Chudan - Nagashizuki (sliding punch) Jodan - Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) Chudan - Mawashigeri Chudan (mid level)

    • Block (Blocks)
  • Chudan Uke Soto (outside)
  • Chudan Uke Uchi (inside)
  • Jodan Uke Ipponme (1)
  • Jodan Uke Nihonme (2)
  • Jodan Uke Sanbonme (3)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Ipponme (1)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Yohonme (4)
  • Chudan Maegeri (front kick) Uke Gohonme (5)

    • Kata (Form)
  • Kushanku
  • One Pinan Kata Chosen on the Day

    • Ohyo Gumite (Semi-Free Fighting)
  • Ohyo Gumite Gohonme (5)
  • Ohyo Gumite Ropponme (6)
  • Ohyo Gumite Nanahonme (7)

    • Kihon Gumite (Arranged Free Fighting)
  • Kihon Gumite Sanbonme (3)

    • Go Shin Jutsu (Self Defence)
  • Two Techniques Chosen on the Day

    • Ji Yu Kumite (Free Fighting)
  • Free Fighting

Readiness & Process

  1. Confirm with your instructor which kyu you’re aiming for and a target date.
  2. Ensure your SKF licence/insurance is current (bring it on the day).
  3. Train consistently: syllabus kihon, kata, and kumite requirements for your grade.
  4. Attend pre-grading checks for feedback and polish anything flagged.
  5. Grading day: arrive early, warm up, present clean gi, correct belt & required kit.
  6. Results & feedback: next steps agreed (targets set for the following grade).

FAQs

How often are kyu gradings?
We run them regularly through the year. Invitation depends on readiness, not time served — typical time period is 12 - 16 weeks with consistent training.
What’s assessed at kyu level?
Kihon (Basic Techniques), Renraku Waza (Combination Techniques), Uke (Blocks), one or more Kata (Form) for your grade, one or more Ohyo Gumite (Semi-Free Fighting) for your grade, one Kihon Gumite (Arranged-Free Fighting) for your grade, and appropriate Go Shin Jutsu (Self Defence) and Ji Yu Kumite (Free Fighting). Etiquette and presentation matter.
Do I need sparring kit?
From intermediate kyu upward, yes: mitts, gumshield, shin/instep (and other items as your dojo specifies). Ask a coach before buying to ensure it meets SKF/WKF guidance.
What if I can’t make the date?
Let us know early — we’ll move you to the next available grading or arrange a suitable alternative if appropriate.
I’m coming back from injury — can I grade?
Possibly. Speak to your instructor for adaptations and to confirm you can meet the standard safely. Bring any required medical items and disclose issues on the day.
Which kata do I need for my grade?
Check the kyu syllabus for the exact list (e.g. Pinan series progressing to core Wado kata). You’ll be expected to demonstrate clean lines, rhythm, and intent.

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