The number of colored belts, or kyu ranks, may vary from one studio to the next, with as few as 5 or as many as 9. All start at white belt and progress through 1st kyu brown belt. Black belts are known as Dan ranks and range from 1st through 10th. Karate is the oriental art of self-defense. The art was practiced in secrecy for centuries and was not taught openly until the 20th century.
Many people believe karate is for fighting.
However, karate is first and foremost self-defense, and requires respect for yourself and others. A karate student is expected to show this respect to others at all times. Anyone, any age, any sex, can learn karate. Karate offers several things to its students, both youth and adult. Karate training is as challenging as you decide it should be.