May / June 2025 SKSV Grading (Shinsa) Results

By Johnpaul Williams – June 4, 2025

Karate is a journey with obstacles and setbacks, goals and milestones. Fortunately, Karate training also builds tenacity, mental pliability and fortitude.

Congratulation to those who successfully graded. Club certificates are not preprinted in anticipation however are created after careful consideration of the applicants grading audition.

Please see the schedule at www.gojuryu.net/schedule/ for dates of the next quarter where you may pick up certificates. and refer to the “SKSV Club Guide” for additional details.

Tokyu 等級: Club / Dōjō Grading Requirements (道場の格付け要件)

In the pursuit of karate excellence, it becomes evident that not all dōjō are equal in their dedication to tradition and standards. Due to historical lineages, affiliations with prestigious organizations, and collective credentials, certain dōjō uphold the highest standards. It is, therefore, our duty to empower our participants to establish and attain their objectives, guided by a meticulously designed grading syllabus (subject to periodic revisions).

Our comprehensive curriculum not only aligns with but surpasses the grading requirements set forth by the USA Karate (USA-NKF), JKF Gōjūkai and Japan Seiwakai Gōjūryū Karatedō grading requirements. USA Karate (USA-NKF) is recognized as the official Karate representative by the US Olympic Committee. The JKF Gōjūkai is the authoritative Gōjūryū Karatedō organization representing the Japan Karatedō Federation to the Japan Ministry of Education (MEXT), and our Japan Seiwakai Gōjūryū Karatedō is our clubs “Honbu 本部” or headquarters which enables membership to the other organizations.

Belt System (帯の制度)

For over half a century, numerous traditional Gōjūryū Karatedō dōjō adhered to a four-color belt system: White, Green, Brown, and Black. Today, aligning with the Japan Karatedō Federation’s evolution, we have adopted a standardized belt color progression. This progression correlates with the following grades:

Notably, the absence of red and blue belts is intentional, as they are reserved for competitions. These colors assist judges and referees in accurately differentiating competitors’ techniques for scoring evaluation.

Furthermore, the red belt holds a historical significance, symbolizing the most senior or founding member of a style or organization. The red belt also signifies the attainment of a teacher’s license, known as Hanshi.

General Grading Requirements (格付け要件)

In a dōjō, the size of the group can influence the formality required to maintain structure and consistency. Smaller clubs and dōjō may conduct informal gradings within regular training sessions. However, as our membership grows, a more structured grading environment and schedule become necessary, in line with standardized grading requirements. Below is a general outline of these requirements (subject to periodic updates), with critical elements highlighted in BOLD CAPS below and, the following pages which outline the Kyu and Dan syllabus:

1. Technical Proficiency (技術の習熟度):
   1. Demonstrating precise execution of techniques corresponding to the designated rank.
   2. Mastery of kata (形) appropriate for the level.
2. Knowledge of Karate Principles (空手の原則に関する知識):
   1. Understanding the underlying philosophies and principles of Karate.
3. Etiquette and Conduct (礼儀と行動):
   1. Displaying respect and proper behavior toward instructors, peers, and the dōjō environment.
4. Physical Fitness (体力):
   1. Maintaining a level of physical fitness suitable for karate practice.
5. Commitment and PUNCTUAL Attendance (コミットメントと出席):
   1. Consistent attendance and dedication to training.
6. Kumite Skills (組手の技術):
   1. Proficiency in sparring techniques, where applicable.
7. Theory Examination (理論試験):
   1. Successful completion of written or oral examinations on karate theory and application.
8. Demonstrated Improvement (向上の証明):
   1. Showing continuous improvement and growth in skills.

We encourage all students to embrace these grading requirements as a path toward personal development and excellence in Gōjūryū Karatedō. Our commitment to maintaining these ambitious standards reflects our dedication to preserving the essence of this traditional martial art.

For further details, please refer to the comprehensive grading syllabus on the following pages. If you have any questions or require clarification on any aspect of the requirements, please do not hesitate to ask or refer to our reference materials.

Together, Seiwakai Karate Silicon Valley Gōjūkan will continue to uphold the legacy of the Dai Nippon Butokukai 大日本 武徳 会, Gōjū-Ryū Karatedō Seiwakai 剛柔流空手道誠和会 and the JKF Gōjū-Kai 全日本空手道連盟剛柔会with unwavering dedication and precision.

Please rereview the club guide where you find an outline that will ensure your are a successful candidate when it is time to grade.