In the Kyū/Dan system the beginner grades start with a higher numbered kyū (e.g., 10th Kyū or Jukyū) and progress toward a lower numbered kyū.
The Dan progression continues from 1st Dan (Shodan, or 'beginning dan') to the higher dan grades. Kyū-grade karateka are referred to as "color belt" or mudansha ("ones without dan/rank").
Dan-grade karateka are referred to as yudansha (holders of dan/rank).
Yudansha typically wear a black belt. Requirements of rank differ among styles, organizations, and schools.
Kyū ranks stress stance, balance, and coordination. Speed and power are added at higher grades.
A young student graduates up a rank in belt in front of his dojo.
Minimum age and time in rank are factors affecting promotion. Testing consists of demonstration of techniques before a panel of examiners.
This will vary by school, but testing may include everything learned at that point, or just new information.
The demonstration is an application for new rank (shinsa) and may include kata, bunkai, self-defense, routines, tameshiwari (breaking), and/or kumite (sparring).
Dishonest practice
Due to the popularity of martial arts, both in mass media and reality, a large number of disreputable, fraudulent, or misguided teachers and schools have arisen, approximately over the last 40 years.
Commonly referred to as a "McDojo" or a "Black Belt Mill," these schools are commonly headed by martial artists of either dubious skill or business ethics.
