Reflection on Taekwondo and Black Belt Training
Auburn Martial Arts Center recently conducted its Spring Black Belt Pre-Test to evaluate candidates for Black Belt rank progression and the formal UWTA Black Belt Test on April 17th, 2010.
The Pre-Test is a thorough physical fitness and martial arts training test. Students complete timed one or two mile runs (depending on age), complete speed tests for maximum sit-ups and push-ups in a minute, demonstrate their current rank forms, self-defense techniques, mock sparring, and board breaking skills. It is a tiring, long, and private testing, but ultimately very satisfying. Our students train very hard to prepare for this test, and all came through with excellent results.
Besides the physical part of testing, there is also a reflective, philosophical aspect to testing too. As part of the process, all students are required to write an essay on a variety of topics such as "What does a black belt mean to me" or "What does Taekwondo mean to me". The essay provides a wonderful opportunity to look back at your training, and think about your motivations and goals as you began your martial art training, and to consider where you are going into the future.
Over the coming weeks, we are going to share some of these essays with you to get a peek inside of these motivations, goals, and aspirations of our students. Often, we find sharing these stories to be inspirational to other students, family members, and new potential students who are wondering "what is it all about".
Stay tuned!
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