Athletes’ development is progressively assessed during training. As with most modern martial arts, our school has a grading system to symbolize stages of learning. To be a part of the formal grading system in our school you will need to become an Okukan member.
50% of the cost of becoming a member goes to national affiliation. This part of your membership ensures that the karate style you practice(Shitoryu) is maintained and delivered genuinely. It also ensures that your grading is acknowledged internationally. The remaining 50% goes to Shitoryu Karatedo Queensland. This part of the membership covers insurance and contributes to ongoing local initiatives of members like your. You are required to renew this membership annually if you wish to be considered for grading.
You will be advised when you are ready for your next grading.
There are a few interrelated aspects that are emphasized upon for understanding when an Okukan member is ready for grading. These include: technical aspects, training period and spirit.
During your training you will be learning practical aspects of Shitoryu Karatedo. Training will give you a level of expertise in stances, blocks, attacks, breathing, speed and power, body movement and shift, precision, readiness, rhythm, timing, concentration and sight, accuracy and balance. The learning of these aspects will be evidenced in your Kata (pattern) and Bunkai (self-defence application), and in Kihon (form practice) and Kumite (sparring) practice.
Although it is unlikely that all students will learn technical aspects at the same pace, you will need to attend a minimum number of training sessions to be eligible for grading.
Training is expected to be a sustained effort. Missing training sessions (or scattered attendance) can prevent improvement in the various aspects of practice
Training at Okukan means becoming a Karateka (karate practitioner). This implies an appreciation of the ethics inherited over years of development of Karatedo, in addition to the technical aspects. Dojo Kun and Shitoryu Five Way Spirit are pivotal to understanding the Karateka’s code of conduct.
Print and fill out this grading form if you have been advised you are ready for grading.