Visit our testing information page for more general information and what to expect about testing.

6 Major Concepts for Grading Techniques

Correct Stance: Each stance has the proper depth, width, foot angle & weight distribution.

Focus Breathe: The use of his/her breathe to demonstrate power, rhythm, and body control.

Eye Contact: The use of his/her eyes to determine the target for each technique used.

Speed: The speed of blocks, punches, kicks, & execution of combos, Kime, and "soft/hard" movements.

Targeting: All techniques (blocks, punches, kicks, including all positions & chambers) are completed at the assigned target.

Balance: Having control of his/her body while executing each technique. 


Red Stripe Quiz: 4 of the 6 major concepts must be applied to all kata & Bunkai

Blue Stripe Quiz: 4 of the 6 major concepts must be applied to elbow techniques, blocks, and attacks

Green Stripe Quiz: 4 of the 6 major concepts must be applied to escapes & sparring concepts


Test Grading Scale for White Belts

P: Technique is done very well. Demonstrating the understanding of the 4 or more of the 6 major concepts.

W/O: Technique was done lacking 3 or more of the 6 major concepts. Will need to focus on improving this technique immediately.


Test Grading Scale for Yellow-Brown Belts

EX: The technique met all 6 major concepts. The technique was done at black belt level.

G: The technique lacked 2 of the 6 major concepts for mastery. The technique was done very well for the level that they have.

OK: The technique was done well but lacked 4 of the 6 major concepts. They may need some more time to master these techniques.

N: The technique was not done well. Many of the 6 major concepts were incomplete. This technique may need attention before advancing.