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  Teacher cheryl.pomee
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Congratulations on achieving your 7th Kyu (Green Belt) in Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate! This is a significant milestone, signifying substantial progress and a growing understanding of the art. You’ve built a solid foundation and are now delving into more complex techniques and concepts.

What Does 7th Kyu (Green Belt) Mean?

The green belt represents growth, like a plant sprouting and reaching towards the sun. It symbolizes a deeper understanding of Goju Ryu principles and a growing ability to apply them effectively. You’re becoming more proficient in your techniques and demonstrating greater control and awareness.

What Do You Learn at 7th Kyu?

At this level, you’ll continue to refine your existing skills, learn more advanced techniques, and deepen your understanding of Goju Ryu concepts:

• Mastery of Basics: You’ll be expected to perform the fundamental stances, blocks, and strikes with a high degree of precision, power, speed, and fluidity. Your instructors will be looking for near-perfect execution and a deep understanding of the underlying principles.
• Advanced Techniques: You’ll learn more complex variations of blocks, strikes, and evasive movements, expanding your repertoire and giving you a wider range of options for offense and defense. These may include techniques that require greater coordination, balance, and control.
• Kata Development: You’ll continue to progress through the kata curriculum, continuing to learn Gekkisai Dai ich and Ni and possibly beginning Saifa. These kata introduce more complex combinations, footwork, and a greater emphasis on flow, rhythm, and practical application. Saifa, in particular, will introduce grappling and close-quarter combat concepts.
• Combination Drills Refinement and Expansion: You’ll refine your existing combination drills and learn more complex sequences. The focus will be on seamless transitions between techniques, efficient power generation, and the ability to adapt to changing situations.
• Kumite Expansion and Application: You will expand on your Kumite, practicing more complex scenarios and focusing on the practical application of your techniques. You’ll learn how to control distance, timing, and power in a partner setting.
• Body Mechanics and Power Generation Mastery: You’ll further refine your understanding of body mechanics, focusing on maximizing power generation through efficient use of posture, weight shifting, hip rotation, core engagement, and breathing.

What’s Important at 7th Kyu?

• Striving for Excellence: You should strive for excellence in every aspect of your training, from the most basic techniques to the most complex kata.
• Developing a Strong Spirit: Cultivate a strong and resilient spirit, capable of overcoming challenges and pushing beyond your perceived limitations.
• Understanding the Bunkai (Kata Applications): Begin to explore the bunkai (practical applications) of your kata. This involves analyzing the movements in the kata and understanding how they can be used in self-defense situations.
• Refining Your Timing and Distance: Develop a keen sense of timing and distance, essential skills for effective sparring and self-defense.
• Cultivating Humility and Respect: Continue to cultivate humility and respect in your training. Be open to learning from your instructors and your training partners.

What Does it Mean to be a Green Belt?

Earning your green belt signifies significant progress in your Goju Ryu journey. It demonstrates your dedication, your growing skill, and your deeper understanding of the art. You’re becoming a more proficient martial artist and are well on your way to mastering the more advanced techniques and concepts of Goju Ryu. Keep training diligently, and you will continue to grow and flourish on your path.