The grading system at RKD Karate is designed to reward hard work and dedication. As a student, you will have the opportunity to progress through the ranks, from beginner to black belt, by demonstrating your mastery of the techniques and principles of karate. The grading system provides clear goals for you to work towards and helps you track your progress and improvement over time.
Each grade is accompanied by a set of expectations and requirements, which are designed to challenge you and help you grow as a karate practitioner. These expectations include demonstrating technical proficiency, physical fitness, and mental and emotional resilience. You will also be expected to demonstrate a strong understanding of the RKD philosophy and culture, and to contribute to the supportive and inclusive environment of the club.
The grading system at RKD Karate is designed to be accessible to people of all ages and abilities, and to provide a pathway for personal growth and development. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced karate practitioner, you will find that the grading system is designed to help you reach your full potential and achieve your goals.
The RKD Karate Grading Kata
The grading kata of Ryu Ku Do are a testament to the knowledge and expertise of its founder, Sensei Mitch Bayliss. With over 40 years of experience in the martial arts, Sensei Bayliss has created a set of kata that embody the essence of Ryu Ku Do. These kata are not only an expression of the style's practical self-defense techniques, but also reflect its philosophical foundations, application of meditation, and underpins an adaptive approach to training. As a result, the grading kata of Ryu Ku Do are an integral part of the student's journey in the art, serving not only as a measure of their technical proficiency but also their understanding of the style's core principles.
The grading kata form a crucial aspect of advancing in this martial art. The kata are a series of movements and techniques that demonstrate a student's ability to perform the various skills and techniques they have learned. The grading kata is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their mastery of these skills and show their progress to their instructors. The grading system provides a clear structure for students to follow and offers a sense of achievement as they progress through the levels. Each grading kata builds upon the previous one, allowing students to develop their skills in a systematic and progressive manner. The kata not only serve as a way of grading, but they also provide a comprehensive workout, promoting fitness, coordination, and balance. In Ryu Ku Do, the grading kata is a key aspect of the student's journey towards mastery of this martial art, and a pathway to achieving the highest levels of proficiency.
The following chart displays the progression of core Kata to be performed in the Ryu Ku Do Karate grading system, starting from white belt to the highest rank of 5th Dan Black Belt.
Grade - Belt
Kata required to achieve grade.
8th Kyu - Yellow Belt
Ku no Itch (First of Emptiness)
6rd Kyu - Blue Belt
Ku no Ni (Second of Emptiness)
4th Kyu - Green Belt
Ku no San (Third of Emptiness)
2nd Kyu - Brown Belt
Nagare no
Itch (First of Flow); Ku no Sei (Essence of Emptiness)
P. 1st Dan - Black Belt
Nagare no
Ni (Second of Flow)
1st Dan - Black Belt
Nagare no
San (Third of Flow)
2nd Dan - Black Belt
Shizen Itch (First of Nature); Nagare no Utsu" (Flow of Movement)
3rd Dan - Black Belt
Shizen no Ni (Second of Nature)
4th Dan - Black Belt
Shizen no
San (Third of
Nature)
5th Dan - Black Belt
Michi no
Terasu (Enlightened Way); Shizen no Chikara" (Nature's Strength)
Why RKD Karate?
"Discover the transformative power of Ryu Ku Do Karate, where self-defense and physical fitness are just the beginning. Our classes cultivate positive values, boost self-confidence, instill discipline and focus, and foster overall well-being.
Join our supportive community and experience the journey to becoming a better person through the art of Ryu Ku Do. We welcome students of all ages and backgrounds to become part of our karate family."
Physical fitness and self-defense: Ryu Ku Do helps to develop strength, endurance, flexibility, coordination, and self-defense skills.
Mental and emotional benefits: Practicing karate can help improve focus, concentration, and self-confidence, as well as reduce stress and anxiety.
Cultural heritage: Ryu Ku Do draws upon the traditions Japanese of martial arts that has been passed down for generations, providing an opportunity to learn about and connect with Japanese Budo culture.
Sense of community: Ryu Ku Do schools often foster a sense of community, providing an opportunity to make new friends and be part of a supportive group.
Personal growth: Practicing karate can help individuals grow both physically and mentally, developing discipline, perseverance, and respect.
Fun and excitement: Ryu Ku Do provides an enjoyable and active form of exercise that can be both challenging and rewarding.
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