Black Belt Test Information

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO TEST FOR SHODAN-1st DEGREE BLACK BELT! YOU’VE WORKED VERY HARD TO COME THIS FAR.

With everything you’ve had to overcome to get here, especially the last couple years, you should be indescribably proud of this opportunity, pass or fail. The mindset, commitment, consistency, balance, flexibility, adaptability, perseverance, skill, and attitude you’ve displayed for years is just some of what shows me you have the makings of a LEVEL 3 Black Belt. I’ve prided myself on these attributes for decades in the martial arts and they have always proved beneficial to my personal and professional achievement as I believe they will yours. Most people don’t make it this far, and even less achieve Black Belt. But you’re here. Consider the test a formality, a formality that still requires your best effort, skill, and knowledge to be applied at a specific moment in time, but know you’re more than half-way there already. Let this encourage you! I am extremely honored and proud as your instructor to share this moment with you and am very much looking forward to this day. Please thoroughly review the below information (this info may be updated as we near the test so check back regularly). If you have concerns or questions please address them with me immediately. I look forward to officially welcoming you into the world of level 3 - Black Belt!

• Date: Saturday, May 7, 2022 @ 9:00am

• Location: Dojo (…and potentially outdoors as well so prepare all items needed with consideration to your health, the weather, and training equipment for the safest outdoor experience possible).

• Black Belt testing COVID guidelines: Based on the ever-fluid pandemic variables we will continue to update you on how we’ll approach testing. However, due to the immense amount of time and close contact we’ll have with each other proof of a negative COVID PCR test within 48-hours of test date will be required to perform, even if you’re vaccinated and/or plan on optionally masking. Thank you for your continued respect and consideration for our L3MAP family. COVID PCR testing is currently free and may be scheduled using this link: https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/coronavirus-testing/

Your Black Belt test fee will be charged automatically to your card the week preceding test-day. If you wish to pay via check or cash please notify me before May 1st. Your $450.00 test fee covers the cost of the certificate, belt, and the time of the testing procedure which should not exceed six hours. Since test length is never predetermined it’s wise to leave your day open. If you’re unable to complete your test you may attend the next Black Belt test at no additional charge assuming your skills remain test-ready.

Prioritize this event and show up. Testing is a very special earned opportunity not to be taken for granted.  If it conflicts with other activities then cancel or reschedule your other activities. Arrive early to prepare. Late-comers will not be allowed once the test begins. If you are sick notify me and stay home - do not attend the test. I understand your excitement and eagerness about achieving Black Belt, however your health and everyone else’s is paramount.

Proper dress etiquette:  Wear a clean and pressed full uniform with a proper colored and placed Level 3 patch along with a LEVEL 3 t-shirt / tank top worn beneath the uniform. If your uniform is not up to Level 3 standards you may be required to purchase a new one before testing. Males should wear a groin protector and females should wear a chest protector.  Gi sleeves should be rolled down. Your Gi pants should touch the instep of your foot. Hem your pants if needed - rolled Gi pant legs are dangerous and not proper.  No jewelry of any kind may be worn. Students with long hair must wear a pony-tail or bun. As with any class students and uniforms should be well-groomed, healthy, and odorless. Bring your sparring / safety equipment.

Don't forget these important items: Eat healthy meals leading up to the test. Bring a bottle of water, sparring gear, appropriate shoes and sunblock for potential outside training, medicines with applicators needed in case of emergency along with emergency contact information, mask. If you require another person to administer medicine then they must be present throughout the entire test. You may want to bring an electrolyte-filled beverage like Gatorade or SmartWater for after-test replenishment along with a protein filled snack. The test is rigorous but we will take water breaks to ensure proper hydration and performance.

The test is about effort and attitude. Give your best effort throughout the test. Mistakes are inevitable but don’t let them distract you and ruin the experience. The test isn't about perfection. It's about the ability to stay focused and move forward with determination when a mistake is made or fatigue sets in. Perseverance and positive attitude will get you to your goal!

Click the button below to download a summary of the skills you’ll be required to perform during your Black Belt testing event.

A Black Belt is a White Belt that never quit.