Being A Dan Grade

Achieving the status of Shodan (1^st Dan Black Belt) should not be a target, nor an end in itself, look to it as a beginning.

Only when we reach the level of Shodan can we truly begin to learn our chosen Martial Art.

Sho = first

Dan = step/level

When you first achieve the grade of Shodan (1st Dan Black Belt), you are now an even more important member of Nakama Do Shukokai Karate Club in terms of the example you will now have to set. Having reached a high standard of proficiency through hard work, perseverance and dedication; your Sensei, and other students, will expect a good example from you.

Sometimes students feel that they did not do well in their grading, or that in some way they are inadequate. This is not the case, you would not have passed if this were true. This feeling is a manifestation of your lack of confidence and as such is now an area of yourself you must try to address and improve.

Most students who reach Shodan can become complacent, they seem to think that they have done it! reached their goal, the end of the line. Do you really think that you know it all? Perhaps what you do know is most of the basics. You will never fully understand Karate-Do. The more you study it, the more it opens up.

That is the great challenge now, finding out how to improve your techniques, finding the hidden secrets of Kata and much, much more. This is why it is such a disappointment to see a student who has trained very hard for five years or more, and reaches the level of Shodan, and then trains less as a Black Belt than when they were trying for that grade as a Brown Belt student. Do not fall into this mentality, you are now a beginner again. You have now begun your real Martial Arts career. You must try to become a competent practitioner and teacher. For you personally, this should be a tough time, all the emphasis is on you as a Black belt.

Things to consider:-

Develop your teaching skills by helping Junior grades and other students.

Set an example to other students by training hard and regular attendance.

Be very strict with your own personal training regime and attendance.

Enhancing your skills and knowledge and all aspects of the Dojo Khun.

Take time to really develop your philosophy and way of thinking in order to improve your mind.

Develop mind, body and spirit together, so that you feel better in yourself.

This is a time to test your own level of understanding.

It is expected that you will now become self motivated.

Develop self motivation with guidance from Sensei rather than being taught syllabus.

The transition to self motivation is very difficult, but this in itself is a real test, and will help you to develop in ways you never thought possible.

Attend courses and seminars and experience other Martial Arts and styles.

Look deeply into Kata.

Finding the secrets of Kata that are locked away waiting for you to discover them.

Learn Advanced Kata.

Work towards your next Dan grade.

Be better than ever, yet with more humility than ever.

Be more powerful than ever, yet far more gentle then ever.

You have completed five or more years of training and now the rest of your Karate life awaits you. What are you going to do now? Give up? Or develop yourself into your best you can be?

Develop self-motivation with guidance from Sensei rather than learning syllabus.

Some students will find the transition to self-motivation very difficult; this in itself is a test and will help to develop you in ways you never thought possible. Helping others in class will allow you to grow and should be more of a priority in your training.

You may not notice it, but Sensei will push you less, demand less and even shout less. However, I will expect far more.

You will only gain confidence, self respect and the respect of others in the Dojo by training hard, being an example to Junior grades and pushing yourself to be the best you can. You are only worth your grade while you are training.

HOW CAN YOU AFFORD TO TAKE IT EASY WITH ALL THIS WORK TO DO?

NEVER stop being prepared to learn, even from a green belt. Remain humble always. Respect every living creature. Be courteous and sincere and remember, “It is NOT the colour of the belt that counts but the quality of the person that wears the belt”

Please make a mental note to read this every three months to remind yourself of the arduous journey in front of you.