At Bushido Martial Arts, grading is not just about turning up—it's about showing you're truly ready. We take pride in maintaining high standards, and our grading process reflects that.

📅 When Do Gradings Happen?

We hold four gradings per year, scheduled at regular intervals:

• March

• June

• September

• The last weekend of November

The time between each grading is known as a grading period, and this is when students are expected to train, improve, and prepare.

🕒 48 Hours of Training Required

To be considered for grading, students must complete a minimum of 48 hours of training during the grading period.

Our dojo is open 8 hours per week, so this works out to around 4 hours per week over the course of the grading period. This level of commitment helps ensure:

• Sufficient time to practise techniques

• Consistent exposure to the syllabus

• Steady improvement in fitness, control, and understanding

✅ Instructor Approval Is Still Required

Meeting the 48-hour requirement alone does not guarantee a grading invite.

Even if a student has completed the required training time, it is the instructor’s responsibility to decide whether they are ready to take part in a grading.

This decision is made with the student’s best interests in mind. Gradings can be long, intense sessions—up to six hours in some cases. If a student is not ready, we will not put them through the pressure of a grading they are unlikely to pass.

Instead, we offer clear feedback, guidance, and encouragement to help them prepare for the next opportunity.

💡 Why These Expectations Matter

Our grading expectations are there to:

• Encourage consistent training habits

• Promote technical and personal development

• Avoid rushed or unprepared grading attempts

• Maintain the credibility of our belts and rankings

Every student at Bushido earns their progress—there are no shortcuts.

👊 Final Thoughts

We understand it can be disappointing to miss a grading, especially after putting the hours in. But remember—every lesson counts, and your time will come. Our goal is not just to pass students, but to prepare them to succeed with confidence.

If you're unsure of your grading readiness, talk to your instructor. We’re here to support your progress every step of the way.

Train hard. Show up. Stay consistent. Earn your belt the right way.