Wednesday, May 23, 2007

The Higher Degrees of Black Belt

As we all know, very few students who commence their training in the art of Kenpo Karate are able to obtain a black belt. Most get involved in other activities, or are unable to effectively manage their time in such a way that they make Kenpo a priority. Of those that do reach black belt, some view this achievement as the ultimate goal achieved, and no longer want to continue on in their endless journey as a lifelong martial artist. Sadly, this is more common in McDojo’s where almost all emphasis is on the one destination – black belt.

But for some, black belt level is a whole new beginning. It starts the process where one is now the lowest level (in terms of degrees/dan ranks) of the black belt levels. It also means that to obtain future degrees of black belt, one will have to commit even more mat time, as well as more years of sacrifice and dedication to continue to progress.

In American Kenpo Karate, there is required material to learn up to the rank of 5th Degree Black Belt (Associate Professor). For that level, one has to learn Long Form 8, which is an intricate and long form that is performed with two knives simultaneously. But then what? What happens after one has completed all of the required material for further advancement in the art of Kenpo Karate? Has does one continue to improve and take their Kenpo to the next level?

The answer isn’t a difficult one: PRACTICE! One thing that I know about this great art of American Kenpo is that there is a lot of material. We have 154 self-defense techniques, plus an additional 96 extensions from the Orange, Purple, Blue, and Green belt base self-defense techniques. We also have 11 forms (Short Forms 1-3 and Long Forms 1-8); and unlike most other martial art styles, we also have many sets, which essentially are prearranged movements similar in context to forms, but more specifically designed to isolate our basic fundamentals. I can speak for myself by stating that there is more than enough material for me that I can work on mastering throughout my lifetime.

But does it need to stop there? Is diligent practice all one truly needs to progress in terms of advancement in Kenpo Karate (or any other art for that matter)? Of course not. To obtain higher degrees of black belt, it is essential that one is actively teaching the art to students. For 4th degree black belts and above, teaching should not only include one’s own students, but teaching at seminars locally, nationally, and even internationally as well. Book publishing and/or DVDs are another excellent way one can spread the art to others, and to continue to learn and improve in one’s skill. Furthermore, one should still have a teacher! This is tough for some, because it means that one has to swallow his/her own pride to realize that they don’t have all of the answers.

Question: What else does your martial art school (beyond time, practice, and new material) require for higher degrees of black belt?