More Than a Belt
Progression through the Gōdō grading system provides students with clear goals and a tangible sense of achievement.
But a belt represents more than technical ability.
Every grade should reflect progress in:
Technique.
Knowledge.
Discipline.
Control.
Attitude.
Respect.
The aim is not simply to produce students who can perform techniques.
We want to develop martial artists.
At Gōdō Martial Arts, we operate on traditional values, these include grade progression.
We use a 10 belt (Kyu) system:
Junior 1st Dan or ‘Shodan-Ho’ is a provisional grade and depicted by the addition of one white bar to the end of the black belt.
1st Dan or ‘Shodan’ can be depicted with one gold or red bar at the end of the black belt although no bars is also used.
Each subsequent Dan grade can apply a further bar to the end of the black belt.
2nd Dan
3rd Dan
4th Dan
5th Dan (Master level)
Instructors may choose to wear a Red and White Blocked Belt when reaching 5th Dan although this is often only worn for formal events.
***There are also opportunities for students to become assistant instructors and then instructors on passing their Black Belt***
