Rank and Promotions

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Rank indicates a level of achievement. Everyone at one point has been a white belt; this is the only belt that seems to be consistent across styles and across nations.  Each Martial Art has its own benchmarks determining growth and advancement.  For example, a red belt in Taekwondo is the belt worn prior to earning a 1st degree black belt.  A red belt in Isshinryu is worn only by 9th and 10th Dan Grandmasters.   This often is confusing for the young karate-ka attending an open tournament for the first time.  It too is confusing for most martial artists and Senseis. 

 

 

DO NOT EVER ASK WHEN YOU OR YOUR CHILD WILL BE PROMOTED!

 

 

This shows great disrespect and can only add time to at the length of your next promotion; remember that a student is constantly being tested. When ready, the student will received the reward and advance forward.  Only through the student’s individual efforts and one’s merit within will Sensei see that the student is ready. No one takes greater pleasure in presenting a student with a well-deserved promotion to a higher level than that of a student’s Sensei. This also assures that you are ready to grow into this rank and obtain additional knowledge that goes with the level of achievements. Parents are advised to not compare one’s child to “Little Johnny Black Belt” at another program or style.  “Train Smart from the Start,” remember, students accepted into a Phil Little Karate School and /or belong to the United States Isshinryu Karate Association are not recipients of participation awards.  Our students earn what they receive.