1. The White Belt Rank: The elemental/physical
Learning to control the body; learning to control physical energy; discipline in the classroom; learning to function under a structured setting; accepting that there are others with more knowledge than our self; building the body.

In this stage the physical aspect of training is of paramount importance. In this stage the student is taught self-control. This does not mean that the focus is specifically on class discipline. It means that the student is taught techniques that enable him to take charge of his physical being. For example, if the student is overweight as a result of over eating the student is taught ways to control his appetite and diet. If the student has difficulty in developing endurance he is taught specific techniques that build endurance. The spiritual aspect of the training in this stage will be taught through the physical.

• This stage typically lasts for one year.
• The student focuses in the following areas:
  i. getting into physical shape,
  ii. learning the "fundamentals" of the fighting system (blocks, strikes and kicks),
  iii. kihon ido,
  iv. learning the first kata and
  v. developing a personal "tempo" to technique and training.
• The student is encouraged to "structure" his life outside the dojo. That is, to adopt the discipline developed in the dojo into daily life.

2. The Green Belt Stage: Exposure to Kumite
In this stage the focus is on the application of the techniques learned in the white belt stage. The focus is on structured motion and fighting techniques.

• This stage typically lasts for one year.
• The next set of kata, set kumite techniques and kumite is learned and developed.
• The essence of this stage is making the student aware that good technique is judged in motion not in stillness. Of paramount importance is the execution of proper karate technique. Particular emphasis is given to the utilization of the front kick and basic punch (seiken).
• Meditation/visualization is introduced.

3. The Brown Belt Stage:
In this stage the focus is on physical strength and strength in technique.

• Advanced physical training is introduced.
• The next set of kata are taught and developed.
• Kumite with strict karate technique is taught.
• Introduction to focus training and breaking. Breaking is examined in two stage:
  i. the strength stage and
  ii. the mental stage.
• This stage lasts 1 - 1 1/2 years.

4. The Black Belt Stage:
In this stage the focus is on systemic issues and continuing to develop the kumite technique.

• Teaching is introduced and developed.
• Meditation and focus techniques are furthered developed.
• Physical endurance is essential in this stage.
• This stage usually lasts seven years.

5. The Black-Red Belt Stage:
The student has become a teacher of GoJu-Te in this stage and is expected to start his own school and contribute to the art of karate. This is the last stage of development.