dan grade training

[Aefibird]

This was posted on another MA forum I frequent. I thought it was an interesting discussion topic.

How often should a Blackbelt train?

With our Organisation, when students gain First Dan status, they are held on probation for six months and must attend at least two lessons per week.
If within the six months they do not maintain the "good standings" of a Blackbelt, they then lose their dan and have to re-grade.
At the end of the six months, they are then given their Certificate from the Governing Body.
They will then be expected to train at least twice a week in senior class and at least once a fortnight in basic class.
They will then be tested every six months to show they are maintaining the high standards that are expected of a Blackbelt Student within our Organisation.

Should a Dan grade have to train more or less often than a kyu grade? What about those who are Shodan compared to those who are, say, Hatchidan? Should there be a difference or is it just the same for every end of the grading spectrum?

[random]

I can understand the need for keeping high standards among black belts, is this way of doing it a predilection of the Chief Instructor, or does it have its foundation somewhere in history.

I think with the pressures of work and the like, and the amount pf travelling some people do to actually train, I think it is a bit harsh to say when and how often someone trains.

I would expect a high grade, especially black belt to train harder than those of a lower grade, simply because of their dedication to get to where they are. One of the problems is the inconsistency that is human nature, this way one week that way the next, that sort of thing, who examines the examiner, who sets the standard and makes sure it is implemented and maintained?

Do our high/Dan grades train or teach?

[Aefibird]

The head honcho of my karate organisation does more teaching than training. Some of the instructors just teach, some train and teach. I think the amount is just up to each person.

As for my own Sensei, you can tell when he's on a fitness drive, as he trains faaaar more than when he's in 'relax' mode!