One of the first things you will probably notice when looking in on our karate classes is that there are several different coloured belts adorning the white uniforms. The colour of each belt corresponds to the level of experience and ability of the individual wearing it. Everyone begins wearing a white belt. From white they progress through the respective levels of yellow, orange, green, purple, brown and black. We use the Japanese term kyu to refer to the coloured belts and dan to refer to black belts.
Examinations are generally held three times per year here in our dojo, but will vary as we, at the Bushido Karate Club, believe that one should not be awarded new belts unless they prove that they have earned the right to wear that belts so we may sometimes only have 1 or 2 exams per year. Examinations are usually scheduled to fall on a weekend and are usually given by Sensei Nathaniel and Sensei Lucien.
We often have the opportunity to train with our mentors, Sensei Tony Tam (8th Dan) and Sensei Danny Tam (8th Dan), leaders of ISKF Nova Scotia (www.iskf.ca). In order to grade, any members must
In addition the The karate-ka shall wear a clean white karate uniform, as well as knowing the dojo-khun
| Belt Colour | Rank | Minimum Training | Kata required for next belt/grading | Grading | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 9th Kyu | Heian Shodan |  | ||
 | 8th Kyu | 4 months | Heian Nidan | | |
 | 7th Kyu | 8 months | Heian Sandan | | |
 | 6th Kyu | 12 months | Heian Yondan | | |
 | 5th Kyu | 16 months | Heian Godan | | |
| 4th Kyu | 20 months | Tekki Shodan | | |
 | 3rd Kyu | 24 months | Bassai Dai | | |
| 2nd Kyu | 28 months | Bassai Dai | | |
| 1st Kyu | 32 months | Bassai-Dai Kanku-Dai Jion or Empi | | |
 | Shodan 1st Dan | 3-3½ years | All kata's will need to be known | Kata | |
My two kids have been attending classes at the Bushido Karate Club for six months. They’ve not only learned self-defense but also discipline and respect. Highly recommend!
I have been training at the Bushido Karate Club for over a year now and I can confidently say it’s one of the best decisions I have ever made. The instructors are knowledgeable and patient, and the community is incredibly supportive.
I was nervous about starting karate as an adult, but the Bushido Karate Club has been welcoming and encouraging. I’m getting in shape and learning so much!
The Bushido Karate Club is top-notch. The instructors are highly skilled and the facility is clean and well-maintained. I feel like I’m part of a family here.
