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"Letting Go" (Ryoku) is the philosophy behind the 1st Degree Black Belt in RKD Karate. This philosophy represents the idea of letting go of self-doubt, fear, and mental distractions in order to fully embrace the principles and techniques of karate. By letting go of these limiting beliefs and embracing the flow of movement, the 1st degree black belt has developed the ability to act with precision, power, and grace in their karate practice. This level of mastery symbolizes a deep connection to the art and the commitment to continue growing and evolving as a practitioner.

1st Degree Black Belt RKD Karate Grading 

Purpose:

1st Degree Black Belt: The focus at this level is on refining the techniques and principles learned at the lower belt levels and developing a strong, personal practice. The 1st Degree Black Belt is expected to demonstrate mastery of the techniques and principles of karate, as well as a deep understanding of the philosophy and culture of the martial art. In addition to continuing to develop their own practice, the 1st Degree Black Belt is also expected to begin giving back to the karate community by teaching others and sharing their knowledge and skills. As a role model and leader in the karate community, the 1st Degree Black Belt is expected to set a positive example for others to follow and to demonstrate the principles of karate in all aspects of their life.

At this level, weapons training is introduced, starting with the Hanbo. This is an important aspect of karate that emphasizes the principles of self-defense and the use of weapons to extend the reach and power of the practitioner. The 1st Degree Black Belt is expected to demonstrate a basic understanding of the Hanbo and its use in self-defense, as well as the principles of weapons training and their application in karate. Through their personal practice and teaching, the 1st Degree Black Belt will continue to grow and evolve in their understanding of the art and make a positive impact on the karate community.

Grading Procedure:

1. Opening/Closing Procedure (Hakkai Shiki)

• Line Up (Kiosuke)

• Formal Seated Postion (Seiza)

• Meditation (Mokuso)

• Stop Meditation (Mokuso Yama)

• Bow to the Founder (Sensei Bayliss ni Rei)

• Bow to the Instructor (Sensei ni Rei)

• Bow to your training partners (Otagai ni Rei)

• Rise (Tate)

2. Grading Essay (Nanoru)

• One page essay on the topic "What karate means to me." 

2. Wake Up (Shinzen Undo) 

• Wake up – breath, relaxation, balance personal routine - 2 minutes.

4. Warm Up (Jumbi Undo)

• Dynamic Flow - 3 minutes

5. Basic Techniques (Kihon)

• Combative Flow - 2 minutes

• Combative Flow Hanbo - 2 minutes

6. Forms (Kata)

• Sanchin (Three Battles)

• Tensho (Rotating Palms)

• Ku no Sei" (Essence of Emptiness)

• Shizen no Meishō (Mastery of Nature's Strength)

• Ku no Hanbō (Stick of Emptiness)

• Kojin no Karate (Personal Karate Kata)

7. Fighting (Kumite)

• Ippon Hanbo Yokusoku Kumite (One Attack Stick Prearranged Fighting): Stick vs Stick defense.

• Taninzugake Yokusoku Kumite (Multiple Attack Prearranged Fighting): Ku no Sei - defense against 5 attacks from 3 people drawing inspiration from the kata Essence of Emptiness.

• Kakie (push hands) - 5 x 2min rounds.

8. Presentation of Rank (Dan ni Rei)

The presentation of belts at a karate grading is called "Dan ni Rei" in Japanese. It signifies mastery, recognizes progress and achievements, and is a moment of recognition and celebration. Bowing to receive the belt is a sign of respect and helps maintain tradition and discipline. Receiving a new belt marks progress in training and encourages continued growth and development.

Self-Reflection in the Pursuit of Excellence

Confucius, one of the greatest philosophers and educators in Chinese history, once said, "When you see a worthy person, endeavor to emulate him. When you see an unworthy person, then examine your inner self." This quote speaks to the idea that in order to better ourselves, we must look to those who embody the qualities we admire and strive to imitate them, but also that we must be introspective and reflective about our own shortcomings when we encounter those who embody negative traits.

One of the key aspects of this quote is the importance of emulating positive role models. By observing those who exhibit qualities such as kindness, courage, integrity, and wisdom, we can learn from their example and strive to embody these traits in our own lives. This can help us to become better people and to achieve our goals and aspirations.

However, it's not enough simply to look to others for inspiration. Confucius also stresses the importance of examining our own inner selves when we encounter those who embody negative traits.  This form of self-reflection or introspection is referred to as "Naikan" in karate.  This can be a difficult and uncomfortable process, but it is essential if we want to grow and improve as individuals. By reflecting on our own shortcomings and the ways in which we may be contributing to negative patterns of behavior, we can work to identify and overcome our weaknesses and become the best versions of ourselves.

The practice of self-reflection is not always easy, but it is a crucial part of personal growth and development, especially at the black belt level. By looking both to positive role models and to our own inner selves, we can gain a deeper understanding of who we are and what we want to become. And by striving to embody the qualities we admire in others and working to overcome our own shortcomings, we can become the kind of people who inspire others to do the same.

In conclusion, Confucius' quote reminds us of the importance of both looking to positive role models for inspiration and of being introspective and reflective about our own shortcomings. By embodying the qualities we admire in others and working to overcome our own weaknesses, we can become the best versions of ourselves and inspire others to do the same.