Beginner Journey
Belts: White • White/Black • Yellow • Yellow/Black
Approx. 12 months total (Each belt level takes three months to complete.)
Beginners build a strong foundation in focus, effort, and basic karate techniques while developing confidence and coordination. Through high-energy drills, students learn essential stances, blocks, strikes, and kicks — skills that prepare them for the next stage of their journey. Every class reinforces listening, respect, and self-control, setting the tone for positive habits that last well beyond class time.
Learn more about our Beginner Karate Classes
and how kids start their training with confidence and fun.
Intermediate Journey
Belts: Blue • Blue/Black • Orange • Orange/Black • Purple • Purple/Black • Green • Green/Black
Approx. 24 months total (Each belt level takes about three months to complete.)
Intermediate students expand their skills and terminology through new karate- and taekwondo-style combinations that emphasize timing, accuracy, and smooth coordination. They develop stronger stances, faster reaction time, and better control of power and distance.
At this level, students also continue our signature Around the World Adventures — a dynamic learning experience that keeps training exciting. Using engaging Zoom screens, kids “travel” to incredible destinations like the Great Wall of China or deep into the Serengeti in Africa, performing their karate while learning fun cultural facts along the way. Each adventure adds imagination and focus to every class, helping students stay motivated and connected as they grow in skill and confidence through our virtual karate
program for kids.
Advanced Journey
Belts: Brown • Brown/Black • Red • Red/Black
Approx. 12 months total (Each belt takes about 3 months)
In the Advanced Karate Program for Kids, students refine their skills with precision, power, and control while developing the mindset of future leaders. Training focuses on polishing all foundational techniques — stances, blocks, kicks, and strikes — to prepare for earning their Junior Black Belt.
At this stage, students begin their GSK Leadership Ladder™, an exclusive pathway that introduces leadership principles such as responsibility, teamwork, and mentorship. They learn how to set an example for younger students while gaining the confidence to lead both inside and outside of class.
Each lesson challenges them to combine discipline with creativity, helping them grow not only as martial artists but as young leaders ready to take on new goals with focus and determination.
Junior Black Belt
Belt: Black/White
Approx. 12 months total
The Junior Black Belt Program marks an exciting turning point — where dedication and effort lead to visible mastery. Students at this level are invited to join the GSK Black Belt Prep Course™, a focused training program designed for students within 12 months of testing.
Through this course, students learn advanced forms, explore creative movement, and even design their own unique routines — an essential step toward earning the GSK Legacy Black Belt. The emphasis now shifts toward goal setting and perseverance, guided by the GSK Goals Ladder™, a framework that helps students stay organized, inspired, and accountable during this important final year of preparation.
This stage is about finishing strong — developing clarity, purpose, and confidence that carry far beyond the dojo.
GSK Legacy Black Belt
Belt: Solid Black
Approx. 12 months total
Earning the GSK Legacy Black Belt marks the highest level of achievement at Great Start Karate — the result of five years of steady progress, dedication, and growth. It represents not only technical skill but also the focus, perseverance, and character a child develops through consistent effort over time.
Reaching this level is more than an athletic accomplishment — it’s a reflection of years of learning to stay committed, even when challenges arise. For young students, this practice of sticking with something meaningful becomes a lifelong skill. The ability to set goals, work steadily, and not give up easily often becomes a model for success in
school, relationships, and every area of life.
Students in the Legacy Black Belt Program take part in a vibrant and active community. They assist in classes, help run social events, mentor younger students, and continue creating their own original forms — combining creativity, confidence, and maturity in one unforgettable experience.
This stage is where it all comes together: five years of life-skill development, leadership training, and goal achievement culminating in a level of mastery that few children reach.
Earning the GSK Legacy Black Belt is about more than skill — it’s about becoming a role model who embodies the values of focus, humility, and heart.
Your Child’s Next Step
Every child begins with a Free Class to experience the fun and focus of Great Start Karate firsthand.
Try your first online karate class for kids free and get 50% off your first month!
See why families across the U.S. and Canada love Great Start Karate — the online karate program that helps kids grow strong from the inside out.