quinteros1963

Go means hard, Ju means soft. Thus goju means hard and soft, combining the two styles in one. It grew from Naha-te.

Question: I personally dont see a problem with testing often, if you absorb the material quickly and can perform it (especially at the lower ranks). If you attend class on a regular basis and PRACTICE on your own, then why not move on? If you are moving on without that, I would be concerned. 2.5 years to Shodan is a bit fast in my opinion even if you are training 4-5 days a week. That would concern me as well. If I were you I'd shop around for a different school and make an informed decision. If you go to another style and have to start from scratch, big deal. Would you rather keep moving up in rank and earn a "McBlackBelt" that couldn't hold your own when needed? You should feel like youve earned a promotion and know that you've earned it. If not you should speak to your instructor. I do know that a school where there are many children may tend to soften things up a bit to maintain business.

I agree that I higher ranking student is able to lead a class of beginers if his sensei allows it. It happens from time to time for warm-ups. An entire class should be left to Yondansa's

30something here.

Stripes or tips go on the right at our Dojo. Your obi should be even with the proper knot as well.

The juniors have a red stripe in the middle of the belt. It is used for u16 years. We only have one at our dojo.

No belts outside the dojo where I train. Its okay to wear you gi. I don't wear it any place else.

Last class I witnessed the reason why not. A 12 year old proved in his case at least that he did not have the patience or experience to help a much younger student a proper forward stance. It was easy for him to do so why couldn't the 6 year old. A kid for the most part does not have the maturity to instruct class in a dojo any more than he would teaching a class in high school. Remember one should be 3or 4 th dan to be an instructor and thier is no way a child should be allowed that rank. Thats what i've been taught any way. again ok to assist and demonstrate, but not on his own, not for my time and or $$$

In my style/school it will take anywhere between 3.75 years or longer. For example it will take the following time in months to each kyu rank :10th gold 3-4 (its not given its earned), 9th orange 3-6, 8th purple 1st 3-5mos,7th purple 2nd 3-5, 6th green 3-5,5th 3-5 4th 3-6, 3rd brown - 1st brown 12, sho dan 6-12. Most would say that a black belt is no big deal, as you now know the basics. Its just the start!!! How much of an expert are you after four years of high school or college. Train hard and have fun.

Teach no. Assist a lower ranked student yes. Although they may be much younger they are more experienced, so I don't mind the assistance of a higher ranked, younger person. They should not be left to intsruct an entire class.

Twice a week 2.5 hours. On occassion I can get a third day in.