My Journey to the Black Belt: Personal Reflections on Martial Arts Achievement

My path to earning my first black belt was a long and sometimes challenging one. This article reflects on my personal experiences, the criteria for achieving this milestone, and the various styles of martial arts that I studied throughout my journey.

My Experience in Judo

My journey in martial arts began with Judo when I was four and a half years old. It wasn't until I was 6 that I started attending the gymnasium regularly. Judo took me from the age of 6, spanning about 19 years, making it a significant part of my life. I received my brown belt after about 4-5 years of training, and getting my black belt was an elating experience, especially considering the time it took to reach that level. The wait made the achievement even more significant for me.

I believe that true skill and dedication shine through when someone earns a black belt. While some people may achieve this milestone younger, it is often after mastering the academic side of the martial art. However, in my opinion, anyone under the age of 18 should not have a black belt unless they have been training for at least 10 years. Similarly, anyone over 18 should not have a black belt unless they have been training for at least 4 years as an adult, unless they have shown immense talent and skill that justifies a shorter timeframe.

Other Martial Arts Undertakings

My experiences in other martial arts also varied. At the age of 9, nine months, I started Taekwondo Mu Do Kwan under the styles of Gorle Sohn Do and Gorle Bpal Do. This style focused on techniques and forms, complementing my Judo journey. However, I must acknowledge that while I was dedicated, I didn't necessarily excel at it. For some, achieving a black belt was simply a matter of appearing knowledgeable about the sport's rules and practices, rather than true mastery.

By the time I was 20, I had achieved just one Dan away from the black belt equivalent in Silat. This martial art was mandatory as part of my school curriculum. However, Silat's focus on sparring was not what resonated with me, and I realized that it didn't align with my preferences or goals.

After a Major Life Event

A significant misfortune changed the course of my martial arts journey. When I was 19, I lost my right leg bone due to a major accident. This shifted my focus towards Kenjutsu, which I began studying independently. My determination and passion led me to study in Japan, where I explored the art of Kendo, which is equivalent to 1st Kyu in Karate. This experience not only honed my martial arts skills but also provided a new level of discipline and self-mastery.

Encouraged by those I met during my time in Japan, I was referred to Shotokan School of Karate, where I studied independently once again. Currently, I am at the white belt level, studying Goju-kai School of Karate, which is a process that I recognize will take time, especially with the added challenge of having a physical handicap. Despite the difficulties, I remain committed to my journey.

Conclusion

My journey to the black belt has been a personal and often reflective process. It has taught me about the importance of dedication, discipline, and the true meaning of mastery. My experiences in various martial arts have shaped who I am today, and I believe that the criteria for achieving a black belt should reflect the value of genuine skill and commitment.

Whether you are starting your martial arts journey or are already on the path to the black belt, remember that the path is unique to each individual. My experiences may inspire or lend perspective, reminding us that the true value lies in the journey, not just the destination.