Grading
Similar to most martial arts, our grading system is designated by a coloured belt worn around the waist. Before the twentieth century, most belts were colourless. As students are prohibited from washing their belts, the belt grew progressively darker as a result of sweat and grime until it eventually resembled a blackish colour. As you continue to train for many years as a black belt and the black material starts to wear off and age, it becomes white again, signifying that we start with purity, learning the basics and we end in the same manner...
Each HCA grading is important and well structured with the focus on traditional etiquette, form and attitude. Encouragement is given to our students during each grading.
There are a number of key areas, ticked off via a curriculum guide that each student must be able to demonstrate before being invited to grade under our Masters.
The importance of grading reflects in the growth and abilities that each student has learnt. After a grading, the student will be able to better identify what areas of improvement are needed. A periodic grading is held at our full time studio.
The meaning of each belt is as follows:
A Black Belt is a White Belt who never gave up
Achieving a black belt level only symbolises that the student has now learnt a range of techniques and through fitness and discipline has developed into a stronger individual. The first degree black belt consists of roughly 350 hours of training. It is only after this level that the student will develop a more complete understanding with further studies and training. The next patient steps are to progress through the Degree (Dan) levels.
Black Belt Degrees (Dan)
- 1st Dan
- 2nd Dan (Intern Instructor)
- 3rd Dan (Instructor)
- 4th Dan (Head Instructor)
- 5th Dan (Master)
- 6th Dan
- 7th Dan (Master Instructor)
- 8th Dan
- 9th Dan (Grand Master)
