Each Kyu grade is represented by a differently coloured belt, in ascending order.
Grading Rules
- Waiting time between each Kyu grade is a minimum of 3 months training, based upon a minimum 3 hours of training per week
- Waiting time for 1st Kyu taking Shodan is a minimum of 6 months training
- All 1st Kyu examination must be taken on an association Black & Brown Belt course
- For 1st Kyu to be eligible to grade to Shodan, a minimum of 2 association Black & Brown Belt courses must be attended during the 12-month period prior to the examination
- Only persons with a valid licence / record book who have completed the required training period may present for examination
- Each Kyu grade is represented by a differently coloured belt
Kyu Grade Insignia:
| KYU GRADE | BELT COLOUR | STRIPE | REQUIREMENT |
|---|---|---|---|
| NOVICE | WHITE | – | – |
| 9TH KYU | ORANGE | – | Kihon + Kata + Kumite |
| 8TH KYU | RED | – | Kihon + Kata + Kumite |
| 7TH KYU | YELLOW | – | Kihon + Kata + Kumite |
| 6TH KYU | GREEN | – | Kihon + Kata + Kumite |
| 5TH KYU | PURPLE | – | Kihon + Kata + Kumite |
| 4TH KYU | PURPLE | WHITE | Kihon + Kata + Kumite |
| 3RD KYU | BROWN | – | Kihon + Kata + Kumite |
| 2ND KYU | BROWN | 1 x WHITE | Kihon + Kata + Kumite |
| 1ST KYU | BROWN | 2 x WHITE | Kihon + Kata + Kumite |







