Kids' KUDO programs are designed to introduce children to mixed martial arts in a safe and structured environment. These programs often focus on teaching basic techniques from various martial arts disciplines, such as Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and kick boxing. The emphasis is usually on fitness, discipline, respect, and self-defense rather than actual combat.
Here's what to expect in a typical kids' KUDO program:
1. Age-Appropriate Training: Programs are tailored to different age groups, often starting from as young as 5 years old. Techniques are taught in a fun and engaging way that keeps kids interested and motivated.
2. Safety: Safety is a top priority, with protective gear, controlled sparring (if any), and a focus on technique over power. Instructors are trained to ensure that kids learn without getting injured.
3. Character Development: Many programs emphasize the importance of respect, discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. These values are integrated into the training to help kids build confidence and develop life skills.
4. Physical Fitness: Kids improve their overall fitness through exercises that develop strength, flexibility, coordination, and endurance.
5. Self-Defense: While the focus may not be on fighting, kids learn valuable self-defense skills that can help them in real-life situations.
6. Competitions: For kids interested in competing, many programs offer opportunities to participate in tournaments or matches that are carefully regulated to ensure safety and fairness.
If you're considering enrolling your child in an KUDO program, it's important to research local gyms and talk to instructors to ensure that the environment aligns with your goals and values.
KUDO BELT SYSTEM
A KUDO belt level syllabus typically progresses through various levels of basic techniques, including punches, kicks, throws, joint locks, and grappling, with increasing complexity and emphasis on practical application as the belt rank advances, focusing heavily on stance, balance, coordination, and incorporating techniques from Judo and Jiu jitsu, with higher ranks adding more power and speed to their movements; key elements usually include Kihon (basics), Yakusoku Kumite (pre-arranged sparring), and Kumite (free sparring).
Key points about the Daido Juku belt level syllabus:
Basic Techniques:
White and lower belts focus on mastering fundamental punches, kicks, blocks, stances, and basic throws from Judo.
Grappling and Groundwork:
As the belt rank increases, more emphasis is placed on grappling techniques, joint locks, and ground fighting strategies.
Kumite Progression:
Sparring starts with controlled pre-arranged sequences (Yakusoku Kumite) and progresses to more free sparring (Kumite) with higher belts incorporating advanced techniques and strategies.
Self-Defense Applications:
The syllabus heavily emphasises practical self-defense scenarios, utilising techniques learned across different belt levels.
Typical Belt Level Progression
White Belt:
Basic punches, kicks, blocks, stances, basic ukemi breakfalls (falling safely).
Purple Belt:
More advanced striking techniques, basic application of striking skills in safe sparring-like game.
Blue Belt:
Introduction to the basics of ground fighting, basic grappling maneuvers, more and basic throws, while refining striking techniques.
Yellow Belt:
Achieving a balance of skills in both striking and grappling and able to apply in safe sparring-like game.
Green Belt:
Further development of ground fighting, basic Submission(joint Lock) skills, more dynamic movement in sparring game.
Brown Belt:
High level grappling skills, complex takedowns, advanced striking combinations, and self-defense applications.
Black Belt:
Achiving a Holistic Style of fighting, understanding of strategy and tactics, ability use grappling skills together with striking skills profficiently.
Able to perform well and in Kudo style of sparring. Score well in the sport. Sparring with safety helmets, and high safety margin/ precautions.