CJKilworth

Hey, I'm new. Interesting topic this! I achieved 1st Dan in Shotokan Karate in 2007. But the fees rose exponentially with Dan gradings compared to Kyu, and at the time we as a family just couldn't afford it. So, I instead focussed on getting as good as I could get despite no intentions to move from 1st Dan. The result was that my technique, kumite and kata went through the roof. Fast forward to now and I've returned after a 12 year break with intentions to grade for 2nd Dan next year and the focus I had with no distractions of gradings and box ticking has paid off, the technique never really leaves you does it! Gradings are irrelevant in the grand scheme of things, as long asyou are enjoying it and always growing