Let’s start with the context of the question: visitors considering joining the Dojo. Many of them have martial arts experience and would like to know if that experience, reflected as rank and/or belt color, can be transferred. A simple yes or no is not a sufficient answer.
How about an analogy? Think about a heart surgeon and a brain surgeon. Both are highly skilled and have spent years developing their disciplines. However, the disciplines are very different. Sure, both a doctors. But, their specializations are different. This is similar to the various types of martial arts practiced. All require many years of study to obtain any competent level of skill. The skills are indeed different – not one better than the other. Just different.
To further the analogy in an absurd way: would you want the brain surgeon operating on your heart? Maybe in an extreme emergency… but not really. Now, if the visitor happens to have practiced Shotokan Karate, the discussion changes a bit. As every school has their criteria for rank, every visitor must be able to demonstrate their level of knowledge for the desired rank. Until the demonstration can occur, it is considered good martial etiquette for one to wear a white belt. This is not an insult to the individual or the school they came from, this is the general custom.
For example, we have had several join our school who I KNOW were black belts in Shotokan karate. Their movement. The way they contribute to conversation in class regarding Shotokan specific topics. Etc, etc. These individuals came in wearing a white belt without being asked. It is just what is done. Some, even after being invited to wear their black belt CHOSE to continue wearing their white belt until they tested for black belt at our school. Again, their choice.
What about other styles of karate or martial arts? Everyone at our school is respected. We have several members who wear white belts and they clearly have martial skill. Their contributions to class are priceless. They are highly respected. They work without worry of rank. This is the way. If I, as a Hachi Dan (8th degree black belt) were to visit another school for a workout, I would generally wear a white belt. I am only a “high ranking” black belt at my school; not the school I was visiting. I would wear my black belt only if I was specifically invited as a teacher or told to do so. Both a black belt and white belt tend to be in my gym bag. This is the way.
At Kentuckiana Shotokan Karate Do everyone must keep their white belt. After the general belt test, EVERYONE in the school wears their white belt for a week. White Belt Week is a time of resetting and humbling. We line up by age, with our elders at the head of the line… unless some of the young ones have stripes on their white belt as they advance for their first test. It is very humbling to see during mixed age group classes, an eight (8) year old in the senior position, leading much more experienced in the opening and closing of class. At the end of the week, if you have earned your new rank, you get the new belt to put on.
So, to answer the question of keeping rank: It depends. In general, rank is not transferable. Rank is determined by each school, with different belt colors and criteria. The head of each school is responsible for the standards set. When visiting, be respectful. Show this respect by being willing to wear a white belt. If you have experience, skill, knowledge, it will show. It won’t take very long to wear the desired belt. Enjoy the journey.
Thank you for asking the question! Here are other KSKD Frequently asked questions.
Almonte Covington
Chief Instructor
Kentuckiana Shotokan Karate Do
(502) 977-5425