BLACKWATER VALLEY SHOTOKAN KARATE

   THE WAY OF JAPAN

Grading information

On the last Friday of every month  grading examination  are held at the HSK Odiham dojo , Hampshire.

Sensei Steven Harrison 5th Dan is the chief instructor of the HSK & holds Japan recognised  grades up to Shodan  1st Dan Black belt. 

Gradings are  also  held at the BVSK  dojo on pre arranged  dates to suit . ( see events).

The BVSK / HSK follows the Japan Shotokan Karate Association  syllabus with focus  on Stances,, Technique, Speed, Power, & Timing. 

Gradings  are  a examination  of your understanding & ability  to perform at the belt level you are trying to achieve, but more important it test your sprit & alertness (Zanshin ) .  

You must really want it!  

You should seek advice or permission from your Sensei that you wish to grade ensuring they are happy that you are eligible  with correct time period , & regular training. 

“Don't rush belts , be a good Karate ka at all levels” 

Grading cost:

Adults £25.00 per grading  

Juniors £20.00 per Grading

This includes a new belt & certificate when you pass.

The examiner is keen to pass you , but you must show  your standard & your will to pass.

Your JKI /JSKA  License  records your grades with the official  stamp from the examiner. 

Grading Guidelines

Þ Hand your  License book , payment ,into your sensei  1 day before the grading at the very latest.

Þ Junior Kyu Gradings:

For children up to the age of 14 years may grade every 2 months,Usually a stripe through the belt to indicate a pre grade.

                Once a junior is 14 years there grade  is transferred  to the senior grading list. 

Þ Senior Kyu Gradings:

 For persons aged 14 years and over , the grading can be taken every 3 months with regular

Training , this should amount to 40-50 classes.

Þ Black  Belt Grading:

You should have a  minimum of 6 month from 1st Kyu Brown.

The examiner  must be Japan recognised .  

Grading Belts

The karate belt or “OBI” ,not only keeps your karate Gi tidy , it represents your grade level. 

Your belt should be tied in a certain manner & is good etiquette  to ensue your belt is correctly tied with the two ends keeping the same length. 

“Take Pride In your Karate Gi & Belt” 

The colours of the belts represents the level of karate you have

progressed to. 

The BVSK / HSK follow the grades & colours shown on the left. 

Junior belts have a colour stripe trough them, this is to ensure there basics & grades are correct & more time is required. 

The Black Belt

After achieving your black belt there are various types of belts.

Some see it a great honour if your sensei present one of his belts

To you if they have trained you & mutual respect is given. 

You can buy a satin, embroidered belts that wears after years of

Training. 

Embroidery tends to have your name in Japanese or English, along with the Karate style n the other end.

It is your personal preference.