Last Updated on Saturday, 02 January 2010 21:40 Thursday, 02 December 2004 10:15

Zen Do Kai practitioners pursue achievement via a belt system, we describe it here.

The Zen Do Kai practitioner passes through several coloured belt phases prior to achieving the coveted Black Belt. The student begins with a White Belt. This represents one of 'no knowledge', a total beginner.

The next preliminary belts are Yellow and Orange.

Next is the Blue Belt, known as the 'incentive level' which separates one from the preliminary beginner...'this, the first step on the journey of a thousand miles - seemingly the hardest step.'

The Green Belt is the next step...'the first sign of strength.' At this level it is 'considered a great loss of face to lag behind the pace.' At this level the eight aspects of balance, power, strength, speed, relaxation, focus, timing and coordination are beginning to come together.

The next step is the Brown Belt...known as 'the stepping off point.' In the dojo and in the family you are like a big brother. At this level, the student studies the Zen Do Kai hierarchical system and seeks a path to follow.

The next step is the probationary first degree Black Belt. The student is expected to develop a deeper interpretation of dedication and a desire to participate and accept responsibility as a Black Belt. 'A true Black Belt following the path of the martial arts unwittingly changes his or her way of life, for he or she can never be the same person again.'

The student then pursues the Ten Dans (levels) that lay ahead.