1st Degree Black Belt (Assistant Instructor)

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The first degree black belt requirements include:

• Black Belt Exercises

• All prior levels (as proscribed above; White through Red Belt)

• Advanced self defense tactics and techniques

• Free sparring; typically three rounds against a partner of equal or higher rank

• Demonstrated knowledge of all safety protocols

• A mature attitude, spirit of perseverance, cooperation and humility

 

The black belt is not awarded lightly. The black color represents the amount of hard work, dedication, and knowledge achieved.  It is an honor that must be earned, and then maintained once earned.  The 1st degree black belt signifies that the student has mastered the basics of the system. It should never be taken as a final destination or goal but merely the first major milestone.

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A student achieving this rank has learned the basics of the system and their learning changes from this point forward. The student learns more advanced concepts and techniques. Their knowledge begins to expand more rapidly. In addition, a student that attains 1st Degree Black Belt rank becomes an Assistant Instructor, which enables them to teach other students under the guidance of the Instructors. They also receive mentoring in leadership, in teaching, and many other concepts that help them to develop their skills. It is often said that in teaching others, we also learn, and this is true of students at this level.

 

The 1st Degree Black Belt test requires approximately 2 to 2 ½ hours to complete. There is a $250 fee for all Black Belt rank tests. This is the only rank test with an associated fee. The fee is required because black belt students receive a new, black-trimmed instructor uniform, special, high-quality embroidered belt with their name and rank stripe, and a Black Belt rank certificate. The fee covers the costs for these items.

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2nd Degree Black Belt (Instructor)

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The second degree Black Belt requirements include:

• A minimum of 1 year of training since 1st degree black belt rank award

• All prior levels (as proscribed above; White through Red belt)

• Advanced self defense tactics and techniques

• Free sparring; typically three rounds against a partner of equal or higher rank

• Demonstrated leadership, dedication and knowledge reflective of a full instructor of the system

 

A second degree Black Belt is a full instructor in the system and is permitted to teach other students of their own without direct supervision, but with affiliation to a Chief or Master Instructor. A second degree Black Belt can administer rank tests and confer rank, commensurate with the standards of the system, to any student up to and including 1stdegree Black Belt.

 

3rd Degree Black Belt (Head Instructor)

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The third degree Black Belt requirements include:

• A minimum of 5 years of training since 2nd degree black belt rank award

• All prior levels (as proscribed above; White through Red belt)

• Advanced self defense tactics and techniques

• Free sparring; typically three rounds against a partner of equal or higher rank

• Demonstrated leadership and commitment to the system

• Development of Assistant Instructors and Instructors of the system

• Any other or special requirements as deemed by a Chief or Master Instructor

 

A third degree Black Belt is a Chief Instructor in the system. A third degree Black Belt can administer rank tests and confer rank, commensurate with the standards of the system, to any student up to and including 2nddegree Black Belt.

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4th Degree Black Belt (Chief Instructor, Master Candidate)

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The fourth degree Black Belt requirements include:

• A minimum of 5 years of training since 3rd degree black belt rank award

• All prior levels (as proscribed above; White through Red belt)

• Advanced self defense tactics and techniques

• Free sparring; typically three rounds against a partner of equal or higher rank

• Demonstrated leadership and commitment to the system

• Development of Assistant Instructors and Instructors of the system

• Any other or special requirements as deemed by a Master Instructor

 

A fourth degree Black Belt is a Chief Instructor in the system and a Master Instructor candidate. A fourth degree Black Belt can administer rank tests and confer rank, commensurate with the standards of the system, to any student up to and including 3rddegree Black Belt.  

 

5th Degree Black Belt (Master)

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The fifth degree Black Belt requirements include:

• A minimum of 20 total years of training

• Demonstrated leadership and commitment to the system

• Development of Assistant Instructors and Instructors of the system

• Any other or special requirements as deemed by a Master Instructor

** All ranks of 5thdegree Black Belt and higher are considered Master Instructor.