I often wonder what people/students expect or want from a belt testing. As a student, I always wanted to have at least several chances to show my best techniques and I liked to be challenged to step up to a new level. But as an Instructor, I get to see everyones best and worst in class every day and everybody is prequalified to promote so I don't really need to see anything specific on the promotion day. I think that the majority of our belt tests are excellent, but I still worry that maybe we should do more....or less....or different.
I'd like everyones thoughts on what they would describe as the ideal belt test.
Sun Martial Arts Blog With Hosts: Master Tim Baker, Master Dave Pryga, and Mr. Matt Dowds
3 comments:
I like to think of it as we do with grade promotions in the academic world. In other words, on graduation day you don't go to take a test, you go to get your diploma (belt). The tests,quizzes, and homework are ongoing through the previous months. If your instructor corrects a technique or gives you a new one to learn then that would be considered homework.
Many people will advance because they pass the curriculum but some are more proficient than others.
If they learn the form and achieve the required points then they pass. The EXTRA effort they put into their training will determine the quality of their style, technique, performance (whatever you want to call it). It should reflect minimally on the instructor.
While I see the necessity of a point system for advancement, I don't like the idea of achieving extra points for good grades, tournaments, etc. I think it rushes the process to the detriment of the student. Those things can be rewarded in different ways.
SUN!
I really enjoy the testing system as it exists Master Hawk. It's an excellent opportunity to display ones form and technique, it's challenging on an individual basis, and it is cermonial in nature.
That requires preparation and execution and when combined with the environment, I believe it develops many skills and subsequently much confidence in the youth and adult alike.
I also look forward to the test because it opens a door to a new form I get to learn and explore.
Getting properly warmed up is always a concern for me. What type of pre-class preparation do you recommend and as was asked by my little Dragon - how early should one arrive at class before testing?
Best Regards,
Falcon
There's always the extra excitement and adreneline for a belt test/promotion...even for me. So I tend to move quickly over the warmups.
As you know, we always begin by going through kicks. This gives us a chance to really get heated up. The biggest problem, mainly at a big testing is waiting your turn to get out and do your form(s). Thats where i always cramp up or have my feet fall asleep. (never, ever has that happened in a regular class)
So really 10-15 minutes before should be enough, but you can come as early as you wish. Mr. Bauman always comes 30-40 minutes early before saturday morning class to get warmed up good.
Post a Comment