"Walk a single path, becoming neither cocky with victory nor broken with defeat."

 

Posted by ADAM CARTER on APR 11, 2023

"Walk a single path, becoming neither cocky with victory nor broken with defeat."

 

One of the most recognizable aspects of karate is the black-belt, which is awarded to those who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the art. But the black-belt is more than just a physical accessory or a symbol of skill; it represents a journey of personal growth and development. Another beginning, not the end.

Achieving a black-belt grade requires years of dedicated practice, training, and study. The journey is a long and arduous one, filled with challenges, setbacks, and triumphs. It’s a journey that demands patience, perseverance, and a willingness to learn from mistakes.

It represents that the wearer has achieved a good understanding of their art and can apply its principles in a wide range of situations. It also shows that the wearer has a high degree of physical fitness, strength, and endurance, as well as mental focus and discipline.

The black-belt is more than just a symbol of physical prowess. It also represents a commitment to the principles of karate, such as respect, humility, and perseverance. The wearer is expected to be a role model and a leader, both inside and outside the dojo. Expected to embody the principles of karate and to promote these values in the wider community.

However, any grade, is an agreement between you and an instructor (or organization), that you represent what they teach, an indicator of your dedication to a particular style, or group… and that’s it.

There aren’t any universal standards governing how grades are defined. Each form of martial art has its own traditions, rules and principles, and there can be many variations even within the same style.

It’s often seen as a humble act to wear a white-belt if visiting another dojo outside of your group, or changing organizations (with agreement). I wonder how many have shown this humility?

Tests vary among styles but each school has set criteria around minimum requirements which can include; time elapsed from the last grading, consistent training, proficient technique, demonstrated progress, a level of understanding commensurate with the grade you represent, approval or recommendation of an instructor, and in the advanced grades, age.

The grading test displays physical ability, and sometimes a written or spoken test goes further, and taps into the underlying intellectual knowledge of students.

The journey to black-belt is not without its challenges. It requires dedication, focus, and a willingness to push yourself beyond your limits. We already know it requires humility, as you must be willing to accept criticism and learn from mistakes. The journey to black-belt is a journey of personal growth and development, as much as it is a journey of physical skill and mastery. A commitment to the principles of karate, and a willingness to lead and inspire others.

In conclusion, a black-belt should be a symbol of excellence, self-discipline, perseverance and honesty, it is not a right, and those who wear it must not be under the impression that having a new belt grade is going to make a huge difference to your life…… because, let me explain. It won’t. You are just the same as you were yesterday. 

There are no secrets to success. Be humble. Be hungry. And always be the hardest worker in the room.

“Walk a single path, becoming neither cocky with victory nor broken with defeat, without forgetting caution when all is quiet or becoming frightened when danger threatens.” - Kano Jigoro (1860 -1938)

 Quote from: ”Kodokan Judo: The Essential Guide to Judo by Its Founder Kano Jigoro".