Student resources
Progress, animals and philosophy.
A concise guide to how we mark progress, the five school animals that shape our teaching, and the philosophy behind a lifetime of practice.
Belt progression
How progress is marked
Progress is based on learning and an instructor's guidance — not a guaranteed timetable. Each rank reflects real understanding and practice. Exact requirements are discussed in class; what follows is a general guide, not a fixed syllabus.
White
The beginning. Foundations of movement, respect and basic technique.
Yellow
Growing command of fundamentals and first forms.
Orange
Deeper coordination and the start of applied self-defense.
Purple
Refining technique and broadening the curriculum.
Blue
Including second degree. A serious step into advanced study.
Green
Including second degree. Greater independence and precision.
Brown
Mature practice and preparation for advanced rank.
Beyond rank
We don't publish black-belt requirements here. Advanced study is guided by your instructors, earned through sustained practice rather than a checklist.
The five school animals
Five animals, five qualities
Our tradition draws on five animals, each standing for a quality a student cultivates — not a fantasy lineage, but a way of thinking about balance in training.
Tiger
tenacity and power
Dragon
adaptability and strategy
Leopard
speed and agility
Crane
balance and precision
Snake
fluidity, endurance and accuracy
Training philosophy
A lifetime of practice
Martial arts combines physical skill with focus, awareness and self-control. It is not flashy lore or a quick finish — it is sustained practice over a lifetime. We teach the whole person: confidence with humility, health, and the pride that comes from honest, steady work.
Restraint when provoked, defense when attacked, and the confidence and control to avoid confrontation where possible — that is the self-defense we teach.
A first step
Ready to train?
Request an introductory lesson and begin your own progression.