How I did it: Practice, practice, practice!  I highly recommend going to class as often as you can, from day one.  And don't worry if you don't get something the first time--just ask to be corrected when your form is wrong, and keep at it.

I ramped up training the month before the exam, so that I was at the dojang for at least 1-2 hours per day, six to seven times a week.  Daily distance running also helped build stamina for 2-on-1 and 3-on-1 sparring. 

However, the way I felt when I was able to complete all 8 Taeguek poomse, in order, completely solo (forms were my biggest hurdle) was incredible, and made the long training process worth all the effort! 

As far as the actual test, I recommend having your training partners, friends, family, or anyone who shared in your preparation come to watch--it made it that much more meaningful to me.  (Plus I have some great photos!)

Lessons & tips: Keep in mind that the black belt test itself is mostly a formality--it's all the work you put into it that will imbue the exam with significance.

It's a long road, and it can be a hard one, but nothing compares to that peculiar mix of pride and humility you feel the first time you wear your black belt.

Feb 06, 2009, 02:07PM PST | 2 comments | 1 cheer