This past weekend we had a Black Belt promotion at the Dragon Gym Martial Arts & Fitness studio. The kids martial arts test was a huge success. It is always impressive to see the dedication, patience and proficiency that even young students can demonstrate in the martial arts.
The students are required to perform from various categories of kids martial arts techniques in order to show their proficiency and that they have met the physical requirements for earning a junior black belt in our system.
From the Tae Kwon Do portion of our curriculum the students must demonstrate "forms". In korean martial arts these forms or technique patterns are called hyung or poomsae. In our system, the children are required to learn the palgwe set of forms/poomsae. These forms are recognized by kukkiwon (world taekwondo headquarters) and are also sometimes called WTF forms (although that moniker is slightly incorrect). The students must also demonstrate a series of kicking techniques in addition to free sparring and board breaking.
From the hapkido and judo/jiu-jitsu portion of our curriculum the students must demonstrate self-defense technique, takedowns and grappling techniques. For example, the students are required to demonstrate an escape or joint lock if an opponent grabs them or some part of their clothing. They must demonstrate a series of takedowns, like outer reaps, single leg and double leg take downs. They must also demonstrate grappling and ground fighting skills. They must understand positions like guard, side-mount, and mount. They must know how to sweep and pass guard.
However, in addition to the physical requirements kids martial arts students are also required to show high academic performance and excellent behavior at home and in the community.
Finally, the children must write an essay about what black belt means to them and answer a series of questions. It is very insightful to see what the young mind thinks about kids martial arts training.
Here are a few excerpts:
Black belt is just another step on the staircase to success. Each time you pass one belt level, you make it higher. When you make it to black belt, you pass another milestone on the way to becoming the best you can. Even though black belt is not the most important, it is still important, just as every other belt level is. The black belt marks that you have mastered the basics in your training.
Black Belts are considered leaders. Younger kids are likely to follow the behavior of leaders. That means that leaders have to set a good example. Black Belts cannot be loud before their class and interrupt the class before them. I will make sure to set a good example and not be loud. I will follow the values of Dragon Gym. Being a good leader will make younger students understand the right way to act.
Rachel M (West Chester Martial Arts Student)
The meaning of black belt to me is a symbol of honor and accomplishment that I have worked for since my first class as a white belt. I would never have gotten to the belt I am today without all the skilled kids martial arts instructors at Dragon Gym, especially instructor Chris Taylor. The instructors have all molded me into a confident you man. Earning my Black Belt proves that I have learned different Tae Kwon Do techniques, sparring and self-discipline. I understand that my learning will never stop. I will always practice to improve my martial arts skills and constantly improve my mind and body.
It is important for me to behave in a respectful manner for the younger belts in the gym. I will not abuse my rank as Black Belt, but I will treat the younger belts with respect and courtesy. I will set the example for them to learn how to act in class and how to practice Tae Kwon Do skills. I will conduct myself in the same helpful and encouraging manner as other black belts have treated me in the past.
Nic D (Downingtown Martial Arts Student)
A black belt marks the end of a long journey. During this journey, not only has one learned many things and accomplished many challenges, but has also gained experience. This experience allows them to learn new techniques quicker and so on. This signifies that there is no end to learning, and there is always something that one has not learned or needs improvement in. Despite this, a black belt also symbolizes a new beginning. Before gaining a black belt a junior Il Dan Bo holder is the highest rank their group, serving as a leader to all those who look up to them. Upon receiving a black belt, this person is now the youngest and most inexperienced of new larger, older group. This process never ends, to the point where one reaches 8th Dan. As a third symbol, black belt represents power, which one must hold carefully. As a person receives a black belt, new powers are granted to them that they did not have before. There are now viewed as a leader and have the highest belt in Tae Kwon Do. This can easily translate to them becoming over confident and losing skill due to overestimation of their power. As all these three things are taken into account upon the reception of a black belt one must keep them in mind to be successful to their maximum potential.
Upon receiving a black belt, I would be viewed as a leader by all others below my rank. I must show good leadership qualities, good form and act as a role model for those who look up to me. Leadership qualities are important for those becoming a black belt. If I am looked at as a leader but do not act like one, it would be counterproductive. Another important thing would be good and proper form, which ties into being a good role model for others. If others look up to me, I must be demonstrating correct form and behavior with self-confidence.
Ayush K. (Exton Martial Arts student)
