I spend a lot of time thinking about Karate. What to practice myself, what to teach, how to teach, how to grade and so on. I’ve trained in several arts, all with greatly varying approaches to these questions. There is no right answer, because all people are different. In Capoeira, grading was organic, based on your commitment and personal strengths. Everyone learnt the same things together. In Kung Fu there were no grades, but again, based on commitment some students became senior students. As you progressed, more advanced skills were taught. In the school where I learnt Karate, there was a very specific curriculum and testing of skills, as is the case in the majority of Karate schools. I found merit in all of these approaches and draw on them in my own teaching.
Individuals learn differently and have different reasons for training. Some people thrive on structure, with defined tasks to achieve a specific outcome. Some need flexibility, learning at their own pace the things that work for them. All deserve recognition of their efforts.
This brings me to one question: What does a Black Belt mean? Between different schools and even different Black Belts of the same school we can see vast differences. Individuals. Strength, fitness, technical skill, knowledge… all so variable. One thing that all Black Belts have in common is dedication. It takes time. Years. Many who begin will not get there, but those who commit themselves to continuous effort will get there. That effort will look different for everyone. For some, constant mental or physical challenges will keep them motivated. For others, just turning up every week is their best effort and that is enough. Earning a Black Belt should be challenging yet achievable and accessible to all.
Enso Karate was born out of a need for accessible martial arts. I do my best to be inclusive of all abilities, working to individuals strengths and differences. I’ve previously mentioned creating a more defined curriculum for grading. I’ve thought deeply on how to implement this. There is no one way to approach this that works for everyone.
There is a saying within the Karate world – “Black Belt is just the beginning”. A Black Belt is indeed a worthy goal, but once you attain it you will see the truth in these words. A Black Belt is like a key. It unlocks the door to a vast ocean of learning that can continue for a lifetime.
Enso Karate 