MASIsshinryu

I have enjoyed and benefitted from Kata far more than kumite for quite some time. As previously stated, for the opportunity to hone the individual techniques, the visualization and for the sense of peace and focus it brings. Kumite is not without value, as it does stress timing and control of space and movement, but creates one strong challenge. You will do, in combat, what you have done with repetition in training. If your rules of engagement do not allow full force contact, your reflexive techniques will lack force and/or control. If your rules of engagement restrict target areas, you will probably fail to make use of very effective techniques utilizing them, when under stress. Let's not forget that the Masters from which many of the more popular styles have been handed down did not use what we recognize as Kumite. Most had nothing more than Kata and repetition training with tools like a Makiwara to hone their arts.

In sounding out the local marketplace (Jacksonville, FL) in preparation for possibly opening a dojo, I have found many schools that are asking $125+ / Month, plus testing fees.. etc. Obviously, USD. I am fortunate to have studied under instructors that have not had to do this, but they also had non-MA careers to support them. Neither right or wrong. Just different. If one knows up front what will be paid, and the benefits of it seem in balance with this, there is nothing left but a personal decision to make.

Also very direct... White Green Brown Black It has been my experience that many schools add additional levels, or stripes, to each color (and many additional colors) when they have a system which charges for each belt test.

Be aware also that Isshinryu in the United States has several different organizations which claim to be, or want to be, THE recognized controlling entity of the style. As such, a belt earned in a dojo which is affiliated with one organization might not be recognized by another dojo which has chosen to be solely affiliated with a different organization. I have seen significant differences in the techniques with the kata, from one branch to the next.