Testing

Training in Ho Shin Do Karate is geared to a combination of physical development and psychological capacity building, in order to allow the student to develop technically and mentally in karate.

Students are progressively introduced to an understanding of body movement, positioning and conditioning, breathing dynamics, technique selection and application and fighting strategies. Students will learn how to develop power, balance, speed, timing and rhythm as well as learning to apply mental resolve. These type of developments will see students progressively move from beginner level to intermediate and eventually an advanced level of karate skill, understanding and ability.

To help students appreciate their own development, Ho Shin Do Karate conducts testing (shinsa) four times each year. Students are invited to attempt a test when their instructors believe they have reached a certain level in their development. Testing is a time for students to display their karate both physically and mentally. It should be considered both a challenge and a time to enjoy and appreciate the current level of a student's karate training. Sometimes in Brisbane, testing is undertaken as part of a regular training session with Rod Martin sensei.

Ho Shin Do Karate utilises the kyu and dan ranking system. The practical requirement for testing of kyu (coloured belt) ranks involves demonstration of kihon, ido kihon, kata and, for brown belt ranks, kumite. Yudansha (black belt rank) testing involves practical assessment of kata, kata application and jiyu kumite, as well as a written examination of your karate knowledge.

Brisbane students advancing for black belt ranks will only be considered for testing if training regularly with Rod Martin sensei.

Given our affiliations, Ho Shin Do Karate students are also able to test with Goju Ryu Karatedo Seiwakai and also the Japan Karatedo Federation Goju Kai. After being awarded dan ranking in Ho Shin Do Karate, this option is available to those who wish to attempt these tests, although is not compulsory. Testing will be undertaken as required.