3rd DEGREE BLACK BELT

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3rd Degree Black Belt: "Nature's Strength" (Shizen no Chikara) represents the embodiment of power and grace that comes from a deep connection to the natural world. This belt level symbolizes the mastery of one's karate skills and the integration of those skills into a seamless, effortless flow of movement. By tapping into the boundless energy of nature, the 3rd degree black belt has achieved a level of mastery that is both powerful and graceful. They have reached a pinnacle of strength and skill that is both physically and mentally challenging and embodies the essence of karate as an art form.

3rd Degree Black Belt RKD Karate Grading 

Purpose:

The 3rd Degree Black Belt in RKD Karate represents a significant achievement in the practitioner's karate journey. At this level, the focus is on continuing to develop personal practice and refining techniques, while also exploring new training methods and techniques to enhance their understanding of the art. In addition, the emphasis is on further developing teaching skills and leadership qualities, as the practitioner takes on a more active role in mentoring and guiding others in their karate training.

The 3rd Degree Black Belt is expected to be a respected member of the karate community, known for their knowledge, skills, and leadership qualities. They are encouraged to share their expertise and experiences with others, contributing to the karate community and passing on their knowledge to future generations. The emphasis is on making a positive impact through karate training and teachings, and becoming a role model for others to follow. Through continued personal practice and dedication, the 3rd Degree Black Belt is on the path to becoming a true master of the art and leaving a lasting legacy in the karate community.

Additionally, the 3rd Degree Black Belt is expected to demonstrate their proficiency in the art by showing their ability to adapt fluidly and defend against multiple unarmed opponents. This level of mastery requires a deep understanding of karate techniques, principles, and strategy, as well as a high level of physical ability and mental fortitude. It demonstrates the practitioner's ability to effectively defend themselves in real-world self-defense scenarios and showcases their dedication to the practice of RKD Karate. The demonstration of unarmed defense against multiple opponents is a testament to the practitioner's mastery of the art and their commitment to self-defense and the protection of others.

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 Oral Presentation (Kaisou)

• Oral presentation deviling deeply into any topic relevant to the practice of RKD Karate

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

• Online Attack - 2 minutes

• Offline to Attack - 2 minutes

6. Forms (Kata)

• Seinchin (Lull Before the Storm

• Safia (Lightening Strikes Twice)

• Ku no Sei (Essence of Emptiness)

• Nagare no Utsu (Flow of Movement)

• Shizen no Dō (Path of Nature's Strength)

• Kojin no Karate (Personal Karate Kata)

7. Fighting (Kumite)

• Taninzugake Yokusoku Kumite (Multiple Attack Prearranged Fighting): 3 x defense against 5 attacks from 3 people drawing inspiration from the following kata: 1. Essence of Emptiness, 2. Flow of Movement, 3. Personal Kata 

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.