Advanced Karate Practice

Progressing Through the Ranks

Belt System

The belt system in karate is a gradation which means that at each belt level, the practitioner, their knowledge and experience is different. It starts with the white belt and comes to black belt and by passing through a series of belt in different color. Different belt color corresponds to a certain level of Kyokushin, and the techniques, kata, and principles that go with the rank.

Gradings and Exams

Grading and tests are official assessments in which the practitioner takes in order to qualify them for a higher belt level. These assessments are administered by qualified instructors or examination panels, and can be administered with moderate frequency; semi-annually or once a year.

In a grading, practitioners demonstrate a sequence of techniques, kata and kumite to the examiners. The grading process varies between different karate styles and organizations, but common elements include:

– Kihon: Exhibiting the elementary movements in the correct way with regard to force and accuracy.

– Kata: Performing of the set routines in accordance with sequence, rhythm and presentation of the techniques by the practitioner.

– Kumite: Using controlled sparing to be able to show application, timing and strategy involved in a fight.

– Philosophy and Etiquette: To show the understanding of principals of karate, rules of the dojo and how to behave properly.

Success in a grading entails preparation, practice, and pressure rising to the challenge. It becomes apparent that the practitioner can only show good mental demeanor, discipline, and knowledge of the art in addition to technical expertise.

Specialization and Advanced Training

Weapons Training

Common in some styles of traditional karate, weapon training is the use of weapons but in a limited format to supplement the skills of a fighter. Some of the weapons taught are Okinawan weapons called kobudo weapons which include bo (basically a staff), nunchaku (a flail), sai (a trident), tonfa (a baton), and Kama (Sickle).

Evidently, weapon training assists the practitioners in attaining coordination, strength and accuracy. These kind of weapons also have their own patterns and footworks and each weapon has its own unique movements one needs to perform. Weapons training also helps a karateka to develop his/her knowledge of distances, and sense of time as well as learning the principles of leverage.

Kyusho-Jitsu (Pressure Points)

Kyusho-Jitsu is an advanced part of karate known as the study of vital points or as the study of pressure points that is meant for controlling an opponent or for disabling an opponent. It explains that these pressure points, or “kyusho,” are areas which contain the nerves, blood vessels, and vital organs. When touched or pressured these points the victim experience some level of pain, confusion or daze and or temporary paralysis.

Applicants of Kyusho-Jitsu learn when and how to strike theses points, using striking, pinning and twisting methods. Learning and use of Kyushu-Jitsu involves knowledge on human body and perfect mastery of force and precision in executing it.

Kyusho-Jitsu enables a practitioner to gain more skills in defending himself/herself, offering means of controlling an opponent without causing much harm. However, it is always advisable and safer to be careful and respect the pressure points since execution of the process has dangerous impacts.