It’s time to get ready for the winter gradings that are only a few months away. Eligible students will be notified that they are to be invited to grade. You’ll only be invited if your instructors believe you’re ready and you’ll only be ready by preparing for your grading. So make a commitment now and prepare. Here are some useful tips!
Come to training – regularly!
It sounds a bit obvious but haphazard attendance produces – well, a haphazard result. Each lesson builds on the next and it’s difficult to build your knowledge, skills and fitness with chaotic, infrequent training.
Makes notes after training
Keep a log, exercise book, posters on your wall – whatever suits you – but don’t expect to remember what you trained if you don’t write it down. Better still, bring your notes to class and ask more questions.
Know what’s required of you
Following on from taking notes, you’re required to perform basics, pre-arranged sparring, applications to kata and kumite. You’ll be asked to perform combinations of basics, some of which you may not have seen. To some degree you should be familiar with common terms used. Make a list of what you know you’ll be tested on and ask your instructor to check it.
Endurance, stamina and concentration
Gradings are foremost a test of mind and spirit and can last for some hours. If you’ve not started some extra cardio work away from class it will be hard going. One or two classes a week is not enough cardio training. Grab a skipping rope, hit the road and gym or do more floor work at home.
Work together
Grab fellow students that may be grading with you and practice in front of each other. Give positive feedback and help each other in any way you can. Get to class early and practice pre-arranged sparring and kihon-ido.
Set your goals
Part of martial arts training is your mindset and self-belief. Set a goal and work towards it building your own confidence. Things like overcoming nerves, pushing past physical and mental barriers, learning and perfecting a new technique, developing a winning attitude and perfection of character…that is what counts the most. Enjoy the journey!
