Karate Parent Portal

Maple Grove

Purple belt

Focus areas, expectations, resources, and next steps for this rank.

Introduction

At Purple, students learn the form Shin Gin Hyung while continuing self-defense, pad work, sparring and core basics.

Focus This Belt
basics, form, self-defense, sparring
Typical Length
~2 months per belt (varies by effort/attendance)

Form Video

Shin Gin Hyung adds variety beyond Wan Jun Hyung. Details are taught in class. Reference video here (password: 123nkresolve).

Basic Combinations

All students have certain combinations with basic strikes. The following list is comprised of the combinations for this rank. Details are taught in class.

  • 1. Skip Hook Kick, Backfist, Punch
  • 2. Offensive Backfist, Punch, Back Front Kick, Back Front Kick, Palm Heel
  • 3. Skip Hook Kick, Back Front Kick, Back Round Kick, Hammer Fist

Expectations

  • Arrive 5 minutes early in full uniform and belt; instructors can help with tying.
  • Turn in an attendance card each class; we track attendance and progress with these cards.
  • Bring full sparring gear to every class. Wear gear at line-up for sparring; for form classes, bring the bag and leave it in the lobby/locker room.

Equipment & Safety

Wear a National Karate uniform (summer option: NK T-shirt tucked into pants with belt). Bring sparring equipment to every class.

Tape Stripes

Tape stripes track attendance and skill. About every four classes, instructors review technique and listening. Earning three stripes indicates readiness to test for the next belt.

Monthly Exams

  • When: Typically the 3rd Saturday of the month at 10:00 a.m.
  • Who: All students scheduled to test for their next belt.
  • Duration: Up to 1.5 hours.
  • Eligibility: Posted on the testing list near the start of each month.
  • Schedule: Sparring classes are canceled during exams.
  • Black Belts: Segment testing must occur at the monthly exam.

Tournaments

Tournaments are open at this level. Rings are grouped by age and belt (often gender). Students receive a ring assignment and report time. Divisions include:

  • Performance Basics — Perform class basics one at a time. Non-graded participation; good for first-timers and as a warm-up for Competitive Basics.
  • Competitive Basics — Same skills, scored against peers. Judges look for:
    • Correct technique (e.g., punch twist)
    • Speed (quick on every motion)
    • Power
    • Loud, controlled yells
    • Focused eyes and presence
  • Performance Form — Present the form; non-graded participation. Pairs well as a warm-up for Competitive Form.
  • Competitive Form — Present the form for score. Judges consider:
    • Clean, deep stances and correct technique
    • Consistent speed
    • Power
    • Loud, controlled yells
    • Focused eyes and strong intent
  • Sparring — Bracketed matches; win to advance. Events may be single or double elimination.

FAQ:

  • Can I compete with a form other than the one for my rank? Yes — especially if you recently promoted. For example, a new Purple belt may still compete with Wan Jun Hyung, the Green belt form.

What's next

Next rank: Blue belt. At this level, students begin weapons training with the bo staff. Please speak with Mr. Boone at Purple Belt with a Blue Stripe to order one in advance.

Page Info

Last Updated
2025-09-29
School
Maple Grove
Belt
Purple
← Green Blue →