The Soma-Kai Centre
Soma-Kai Grading system
Like any field of human endeavour, grading systems apply as a way to assess one's progress. But what does it really mean to be graded in the martial arts.
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Tthe techniques and self defence aspect of martial arts are on the base of the triangle, with the apex is character development and self awareness. The ultimate aim of training should be of the mind and body working together as one in harmony. To student whose physical power is merely a reflection of the more important power of the mind.
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As a student commences their journey with us, we assess them right from the beginning. The martial arts has a way of weeding out the people who are only half-hearted, or training for the wrong reasons. Martial arts training also has the ability to influence ones attitudes and behaviours. If you are willing to listen and learn, there is a lot to be gained.
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As one grading ends so another one begins. This means that students are being graded continually and assessed to see if they are ready to be promoted to the next belt level. Remember that it is not the colour or rank of the belt that is important, but the person wearing it.
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Each student is an individual. Some more flexible, others more technical, some find throwing easy and others love grappling. When we grade our students we asses not only their physical techniques and knowledge but the effort they have shown in their training and the attitude they have displayed both to training and to others not only in the dojo but in thier life.
The Soma-Kai Syllabus is broken into three phases on it journey to Black Belt. Gradings are generally held three times per year. If a student is ready for promotion earlier we would accommodate their learning and move them up to the next level.
Phase One
10th kyu White Belt
8th kyu Yellow Belt
7th kyu Green Tip
Phase 1 teaches the basics techniques including: Stances, Punches, Elbows, Kicks, Knees, Receiving Techniques (Blocks), Footwork, Kata, Rolls and Breakfalls, Grappling and Groundwork (Yes, there is a difference), Defences Against attack and Disengagements from grabs and holds.
It also covers the basic principles of movement used in martial arts (e.g. energy travels in a straight line) and basic human anatomy.
This phase normally takes 12 months to complete depending on availability to attend training.
Phase Two
6th kyu Green Belt
5th kyu Blue Tip
4th kyu Blue Belt
In Phase 2 these individual sections taught in Phase 1 start to merge and we and introduce our students to locks, controls, takedowns and throws.
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Students are also introduced to treble contesting - rounds of sparring, throwing and grappling.
Higher grade concepts of the principles and human anatomy are also covered.
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As this phase is more involved it can take up to 2 years to complete depending on availability to attend training.
Phase Three
3rd kyu Red Tip
2nd kyu Red Belt
1st kyu Black Tip
By the end of Phase 3, students are encouraged to have develop their own style. They will understand the principles behind the techniques.
They will know which techniques suit their style and why. They will have developed a tool box of techniques that they feel the most comfortable with.
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This phase can take up to 3 years to complete.
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Junior Syllabus
The Junior Syllabus is also broken into phases but the belt system is slightly different. The aim of the junior classes is to deveop a child's self confidence, self awareness and physical ability. There are more levels within the belt system to allow the students to be rewarded more often. The juniors are graded at the end of each school term. Training ceases over school holidays to give the students a break. If you would like more information please contact us on 0411184032 or via