Colored belts originate in Judo, as does the training 'gi', or more correctly in Japanese, 'dōgi' or 'Keikogi'. In Red Dragon Karate the order of the belts varies in some breakaway groups, but according to, the kyu ranks and belt colors are as described below

Kata

The word kata means "shape" or "form". The kanji for kata the Japanese character above at the right) is composed of the following characters:

形 Katachi meaning "Shape",

刈 Kai meaning "Cut", and

土 Tsuchi meaning "Earth" or "Soil".

Literally translated, kata means "shape which cuts the ground".

A kata is a sequence of blocks, kicks and punches from one or more stances, involving movement forward, backward, and to the sides. The number of movements and their sequence are very specific. The balance between offensive and defensive techniques, the stances used, and the direction and flow of movement all serve to give each kata its distinctive character.

Through the practice of kata, the traditional techniques used for fighting are learned. Balance, coordination, breathing and concentration are also developed. Done properly, kata are an excellent physical exercise and a very effective form of total mind and body conditioning. Kata embodies the idea of ren-ma, or "always polishing" – with diligent practice, the moves of the kata become further refined and perfected. The attention to detail that is necessary to perfect a kata cultivates self-discipline.