Rank Advancement

Testing for your next belt is a process of demonstrating that you have learned the required material and are able to execute it with precision, power and speed (in that order of importance). Your are never tested unless your primary instructor deems you ready. (This means few people ever fail a test and you almost never have to pay your test fee more than once per level). When Grandmaster Sin is testing, you will first be pre-tested by your primary instructor (the pre-test is free) to insure you are ready. It is an honor to test before the grandmaster and quite an exhilarating experience too. You should view your test a as rite of passage and something to revel in, not a dreaded examination. We understand that many adults have not been “tested” in this way for many years if at all. That’s why we make certain you are ready to test so that all you have to deal with is “test anxiety” and not the material itself. Remember, only daily challenge can transform.

Testing Protocol

            1. Wear a clean uniform in good repair and follow the rules for jewelry and    nails as usual

            2. You will first bow to the instructor upon rising when your name is called.

            3. After you have executed the form, bow and then bow to the instructor as             you await further directions.

            4. Should you begin to run out of room, stop and bow, turn (or back up if       necessary) and continue.

            5. Should you make a mistake, bow to the instructor and repeat the form if   it         is a short kata or sparring technique. If it is a long form you can bow and then    take up where you left off.

            6. Never show any emotion during a test (I.e. irritation with yourself) and      never swear. It is poor sportsmanship and will put a negative gloom over your    test causing you to make more mistakes. Think positively!

            7. Be prepared to be tested over everything you know up to your level. If you are testing for black belt, be prepared to perform all material from white to black! Sparring is also a component of your test. You should demonstrate your ability to defend and to attack WITH CONTROL. Don’t get crazy during the sparring portion. Those who humiliate their sparring partners during the         test only make themselves look bad.