Criteria for promotions in martial arts?

For our black belt test we have to:

- Know all 10 kata (For me, I do 6 extra since I have some additional training).

- Know the simple application and whatever advanced application we can demonstrate of kata

- Know a minimum of 60 self defense techniques.

- Be able to spar with every black belt at our test.

- Know our basic techniques - since a blackbelt is simply a 'master of the basics'

- Have to confidence and ability to break boards and perform well on the heavy bag.

- Be in good physical condition - meaning, being able to get the physical workout of your life.

- ANY history or knowledge related questions the instructors want to ask about the entirety of martial arts.

- Know the terminology

- No spectators - held in private

All this is minimum requirements to test.

Every school has different requirements for Shodan though you can expect the first eight from most of them. For my own Shodan grading I had to test in:

All Kata up to Shodan

Ippon Kumite (2 one-step techniques for each belt level)

Kumite (full contact)

Te Waza (Hand technique)

Ashi Waza (foot technique)

Uke Waza (block technique)

Release from grab/hold from any direction

Bunkai explanation for at least 5 moves from any one kata

Recite 60 Bible verses word perfect and with all citations

Explain answers with Biblical citations to 10 questions about how to defend our Faith

Write three 3 page essays on some concept of the martial arts and Christianity (one at 2nd kyu one at 1st kyu and one for Shodan) A 5 page essay is required for every belt level afterward.

In case you hadn't figured it out, we are a Christian dojo hence the verses and essay questions. As far as the language and reading, we are required to know the basic terminology for all techniques as part of the promotion requirements for Nidan. We are not required to speak Japanese on the mat but there are many of us, myself especially, who are trying to learn the language just because it is interesting and fun (and lots easier than Spanish...) and makes it much easier to understand Yamashita Sensei when he comes to our dojo for special training seminars.

We have sections of our book that give history of martial arts, how to deal with bullies (for our younger students), how to stretch, basic code of conduct and respect, and a list of strategy books that include the Gorin No Sho in addition to many others. Because our Soke also holds a Law degree and license, there is also a section on legal and ethical issues as well, but they are not tested requirements. Hope this helps

For me, it is Terminology, Kumite, and Knowledge of Continuum of Force.

What do u propose via beginner ? There are human beings in der 60s and 70s who're nevertheless training karate. all and sundry is a beginner and a clean comer in regardless of martial artwork they connect...

For me it will be memorization of kata. We will have pre chosen arts from every list. Various healing arts and some writing.