A "black belt" means many things to different people.

Usually their understanding is directly related to their exposure to the martial arts through the media, films and actual Black belt holders they have encountered. When people talk of Black belts they automatically think of superb fighters, athletes or superhumans who can perform wonderful feats of endurance and speed.

A Black belt may be all of this and more.

To reach Black belt is to begin to realise your own potential.

Karate-Do training is a microcosm in which our attitudes and abilities are challenged and stretched. Certainly training for Black belt involves the acquisition of the finely tuned physical skills of movement, kata and kumite. However, its ‘Do’ or life way is to develop an awareness of ourselves, our relationship with others and the universe

Many people never reach Black belt. Often despite natural ability or aptitude they are defeated by their own self-imposed limitations. However, once a student realises the inherent advantages gained in the pursuit of the physical, emotional and intellectual developments fostered by traditional Karate-Do training the road becomes much more sure.

A Black belt is expected to have

1. Internalised the basic movements
2. Studied the pre-arranged forms (kata) including their application (bunkai)
3. Understood the principles of balance, power generation and dynamics
4. Studied the pre-arranged fighting combinations (yakusoku kumite)
5. Experienced free-style kumite
6. Gained an overview of contemporary health and fitness concepts
7. Gained an overview of the body's functions and anatomy
8. Studied the historical and traditional elements of Karate
9. Experienced and deepened one's understanding of meditation and the mind