BLUE BELT

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Blue Belt, "The Journey to Mastery" (Shugyo), represents the next stage in the RKD Karate path where the student embarks on a quest for mastery of the martial art. At this level, the focus shifts from merely acquiring techniques and learning kata, to refining and mastering them through consistent and dedicated training. The student will delve deeper into the philosophy and essence of karate, gaining a deeper understanding of the principles that guide their practice. As the journey to mastery continues, the student will cultivate a greater sense of discipline, humility, and respect for the martial art, becoming a true practitioner of the art.

Blue Belt RKD Karate Grading 

Purpose:

At the blue belt level, the student will continue to increase their knowledge and skill in various techniques and movements, focusing on refining their form and technique. Additionally, they will work on developing a good sense of timing and distance, learning to control their breathing and movements, and improving their overall physical fitness. This level will also challenge the student to apply their techniques in sparring and self-defense scenarios, helping to build confidence and real-world application skills. The blue belt student will be expected to demonstrate a deeper understanding and mastery of the art, and to continue to show dedication, effort, and respect for the art and their training partners.

Grading Procedure:

1. Opening/Closing Procedure (Hakkai Shiki)

• Line Up (Kiosuke)

• Formal Seated Postion (Seiza)

• Meditation (Mokuso)

• Stop Meditation (Mokuso Yama)

• Bow to the Path (Ryu Ku Do ni Rei)

• Bow to the Instructor (Sensei ni Rei)

• Bow to your training partners (Otagai ni Rei)

• Rise (Tate)

2. Wake Up (Shinzen Undo) 

• Wake up – 4x30sec breath, balance, wiggle, rotate - 2 minutes

3. Warm Up (Jumbi Undo)

• Personal warm up routine - 2 minutes

• Strength & Breath – push ups, sit ups, squats - 20count/15sec each exercise

• Personal stretch routine - 2 minutes

4. Basic Techniques (Kihon)

• Footwork (Ashi Sabaki):  Half Shuffle (Tsugi Ashi), Lunge Step (Yori Ashi), Full Shuffle (Surikomi Ashi).  All footwork performed from Kumite Dachi, 5 x forward, 5 x back.  

• Receiving Techniques (Uke Waza): Upper Receive (Jodan Uke), Outside Receive (Soto Uke), inside Receive (Uchi Uke), Lower Receive (Gedan Uke).  Performed first from Heiko Dachi, then from kumite Dachi-Jodan no Kami (fighting stance upper guard), each 5 x slow, 5 x fast with ki.

• Punching Techniques (Zuki Waza): Jab Punch (Kizami Zuki), Reverse Punch (Gakyu Zuki), Hook punch (Kagi Zuki), Body rip (Shita Zuki), Uppercut (Uchiken Zuki) Performed from kumite Dachi-Jodan no Kami (fighting stance upper guard), each 5 x slow, 5 x fast with ki.

• Moving Basic Punching (Ido Kihon Zuki):  All basics punches to be performance in Kumite Dachi-Jodan no Kami (fighting stance upper guard).  Moving forward and back 5 counts, a combination of alternating footwork, Aumi Ashi followed by Yori Ashi.  Alternating between Left and Right sides leading.  

• Kicking Techniques (Keri Waza): Roundhouse Kick (Mawashi Geri) performed from fighting stance, 5 x slowly, 5 x fast with Ki.  First right side kicking, then left side.

• Moving Basics Kicking (Ido Kihon Keri): Kumite Dachi, Ayumi Ashi, Mawashi Geri, (Fighting Stance, Step Through, Roundhouse Kick). Performed 5 steps forward and back, first right side leading, then left side leading. 

5. Forms (Kata)

• Ku no Ni (Second of Emptiness)

6. Fighting (Kumite)

• Ippon Yokusoku Kumite (One Attack Prearranged Fighting): Defense against Jodan Zuki

• Jukyuko kumite (Slow and soft sparring) - 3 x 2min rounds

7. 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.

In RKD Karate, the term "receiving strike" (Uke) is used to refer to a type of defensive technique that is an essential component of the martial art. Unlike many other styles, where the term "block" is used to describe similar techniques, in RKD Karate, the focus is on "receiving" an incoming attack and redirecting as part of an attack, or attacking it directly, rather than simply stopping it. This approach to defense is an important aspect of the philosophy and techniques of RKD Karate and is integral to the development of a well-rounded practitioner.  This is why learning the Uke is a feature of Blue Belt and the form Ku no Dō (Path of Emptiness).

Receiving strikes are an essential component of the self-defense aspect of RKD Karate. They are designed to allow the practitioner to safely and effectively defend themselves against incoming attacks, while also controlling the situation and preventing further escalation. The techniques involve redirecting the attacker's energy, rather than simply stopping it, which allows the practitioner to maintain control and effectively neutralize the threat.

In addition to their self-defense applications, receiving strikes are also an important component of the sparring aspect of RKD Karate. Sparring is an important part of the training process, as it allows the practitioner to develop their techniques in a safe and controlled environment. Receiving strikes are used in sparring to defend against incoming attacks and to create openings for counterattacks.

The development of effective receiving strikes requires a deep understanding of the techniques and principles of RKD Karate. It requires the practitioner to develop good body mechanics, proper posture, and timing, as well as a strong foundation in the basics of the martial art. The ability to effectively receive strikes is a result of many hours of training and practice, and is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the practitioner.

In conclusion, the importance of receiving strikes in RKD Karate cannot be overstated. They are an essential component of the self-defense and sparring aspects of the martial art, and are an important part of the development of a well-rounded practitioner. Through dedicated training and practice, the practitioner can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively use receiving strikes in real-world self-defense situations. Whether you are just starting your journey in RKD Karate or are a seasoned practitioner, the development of effective receiving strikes should be a priority in your training.