Karatedo skill is a personal experience and the result of constant physical practice.  After about 1 year of consistent training, new students should be able to demonstrate the following knowledge and competence: 

Understanding of:

• Dojo etiquette and protocol (taitaikyo)
• Basic karatedo terms
• History and philosophy of karatedo
• Basic principles of body mechanics, breathing, and muscular relaxation and contraction

Ability to:

• Stand and move correctly (tachi waza)
• Perform basic punches, strikes, kicks, and defenses (tsuki waza, uchi waza, geri waza, uke waza)
• Perform and receive basic joint-locking techniques, throws, and pins (kansetsu waza, nage waza, ukemi waza, osaekomi waza)
• Train with others with realism, safety, and mutual respect (kumite)

Perform and interpret the following kata (forms):

• Taikyoku Shodan, Nidan, and Sandan
• Ten no Kata
• Mushin no Kata Shodan
• Heian Shodan, Nidan, Sandan

Understand of the application of karatedo to self-defense, including:

• Ethical and legal obligations
• Strategy, tactics, and techniques