Could anyone explain their philosophy on how children, say 6-10 years old, are graded for their Kyu exams in contrast to adult testing?

I know each dojo or organization is different, but children obviously have less control of their body, and their Kata, Kihon and Kumite are usually not at a level that an adult would be required to demonstrate for promotion.

For example, a child's back stance could be off during their kata, or the child keeps coming up out of a front stance during their kata. The child may pass the examiniation, but an adult would not.

I would appreciate any feed bac

Coaching 101: The 'I-paradigm'
Submitted by David Webb, 5th May 2007

The following synopsis forms the basis of all coaching and ideology within the accelerated learning programmes at the Tokon Academy. Instructors within the academy feel it imperative that students understand the importance of 'self-learning' and 'self-realisation' of personal ability.

If an individual is to truly grasp the open or closed skill being drilled, the technique as it exists within its own range and how it complements to their ability and overall 'game' they must first understand the 'I-Paradigm' and how this benefits their progression.

There are many reasons why people start karate, they may want to keep fit, they may be looking for a hobby, self defense, socialising, or they have simply been fascinated by the whole history and mysticism surrounding karate and the martial arts.

Most people, in my experience, are not very fit when they start karate, fitness seems to be one of the main attractions, for a lot of people.

When a karate-ka (a karate practitioner) has been training for a certain amount of time, they will sometimes, naturally, supplement their karate practice, it may be running, swimming, cycling, weight training, etc, etc. Of course, there will be senior karate-ka who only practice karate and nothing else. But these karate-ka are normally very serious and are practicing five and more classes each week. But what of the person who only trains once or twice each week?

I agree that your videos are incredibly useful, especially for novices like me who are still starting out.

I especially found the tutorial given by Linden on Heian Nidan helpful because he was able to talk his viewer-students though each of the steps, with instructions and explanations along the way.

I was wondering if a similar tutorial has or can be made for Heian Sandan. Whilst there is a Sandan video on the website I do find it difficult to follow without Linden's "walk through" instructions.

Thank you Shotokan Unleashed for providing an amazing site.

Hello fellow karate friends,

I am a brown belt- a 3rd KYU. I've got my grading today!!! I'm really scared but i know i'll pass because my friends,family, and even sensei's say i'm ready. When this is all over- i'll be really really pleased. Wish me luck!!!

Best Wishes.

Go shotokan Karate