How to Do Karate Routines to Earn Your Belt

Practice diligently to earn belts.

Originating in Japan in the18th century, karate is a popular form of martial arts practiced all over the world today. Japanese Judo was the first martial art to start the colored-belts ranking system, according to All-karate.com. Today, karate has evolved into various styles and schools. The colors and the requirements for every belt differ from school to school. However, diligent practice of karate routines, also known as katas, helps students master the craft and earn belts.

Instructions

1. Attend classes regularly. Many karate schools have a minimum requirement of classes that the children have to fulfill every week; some may allow kids to come in as many times as they want. Regular attendance allows kids to follow the routines with ease, and be on top of their practice.

2. Learn the requirements to progress to the next level. Most schools require kids to learn one karate routine, along with mastering self-defense techniques and attending sparring classes. However, the rules differ with each school and style.

3. Watch the instructor carefully as he performs the karate routine in class. Remember, a kata is prearranged and choreographed by the school, and involves several blocks, strikes, stances and control techniques. Pay close attention to breathing, hand and feet coordination and balance.

4. Break the routine into parts. Practice each part with a friend at school and then alone. Focus on your stance and strength as you proceed.

5. Set aside 10 to 15 minutes at home to practice. Karate routines become complex as you progress from belt to belt, and at times may involve 20 to 25 steps, or more. Regular practice will assist you to progress fast.

6. Face a large mirror while practicing at home. Visualize an imaginary opponent, as you practice chops and blocks. Concentrate on your rhythm and power. Focus on your eyes. Look straight into the eyes of your opponent. Memorize each step as you execute the techniques.

7. Work on precision. A perfect karate routine involves executing the correct number and type of techniques in the correct order, with the correct timing and in the correct position, according to Traditional Karate Center.

8. Learn additional steps, while you master the old techniques. Take it slow and steady. Never rush through the moves.

9. Work on sparring classes. While these may not be a part of the promotion regime, sparring helps in hand-feet coordination, implementing techniques and building self-confidence.

10. Perform routines in front of parents and siblings. This allows you to perform with confidence in front of an audience.When you feel self-assured and ready, request your instructor to test you for the next belt level.

References

• TraditionalKarateCenter.com: The Kata Practiced at the Traditional Karate Center
• All-Karate.com: History of Karate Belt Colors

Resources

• Traditional-katate.com: Kata at The Academy of Traditional Karate
• Marshall Student Center: A Brief History of Karate
• Portlaoise Kenpo Karate: The Sparring Class