Preparing for your Black Belt

The black belt grade is the most intensive examination of all martial arts levels. A black belt test evaluates your proficiency at demonstrating kick/punch combinations and grappling techniques that have been practiced over the past three to four years. Performing all aspects of the learned skills and techniques in a one-day test requires that your body is in peak condition and you have a high level of confidence in your abilities. Preparing for your black belt should begin at least four months before the test.

Conditioning

Step 1
Combine aerobic and strength conditioning in a regimented training program that takes place over a 16-week period, peaking four weeks before the test. The weeks leading up to the test should be a cool-down period that allows your body to store resources for the grueling examination.

Step 2
Focus on aerobic exercises that mimic the particular style of martial arts. Increasing the intensity of footwork and handwork movements develops your reflexes and stamina. Keep records of the conditioning and chart the time given to each session. Set a goal that exceeds your immediate aerobic capabilities.

Step 3
Alternate strength training with aerobic training. Strength training should include manipulating weight through the ranges of motion that duplicate fighting moves. Apply traditional weight training methods where weight is increased at a steady gradient. Know your limits and do not over-train.

Practice

Step 1
Begin practice sessions by working on the aspects of fighting that need the most work. This provides a warmup period as you concentrate on refining moves and techniques at half-speed.

Step 2
Practice mock fighting scenarios with others who are preparing for their black belt. Walk through a series of punch and kick combinations. Perform the combinations at full speed using hand-held pads to protect one another.

Step 3
Refine your fighting moves in front of a mirror. Ask a friend or instructor to video record your practice sessions. Discuss the nuances of your footwork and handwork as you review the video.

Nutrition

Step 1
Maintain a regular intake of complex carbohydrates during the conditioning and training. Carbohydrates are an essential energy source stored in the muscles as glycogen. Complement your nutrition with protein, vegetables and fresh fruit. Avoid fats and sweets that slow your system and spike blood sugar levels.

Step 2
Test and evaluate any special nutrition or carbo-loading during the training period. Note the improvements you feel during rigorous workouts. Most trainers do not recommend carbo-loading in excessive amounts that your body may not be accustomed to. Mock training scenarios that include special nutrition should be charted for reference.

Step 3
Hydrate regularly with fresh water. Dehydration can occur on many levels and it is important to avoid the adverse affect of dehydration on your body and mind. Consult your instructor or a nutrition expert on the amount of water needed to compensate for minerals and other elements lost through perspiration.

References
International Taekwon-Do: Preparation for Black Belt Grading
Master Mohammad Club: Black Belt Attitude
North American Tae Kwon Do
Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/368592-how-to-prepare-for-my-black-belt/#ixzz1ktOVIAjr

Wayne Otto Training session

Wayne Otto is taking a training session at Phil Laing's Dojo (72 Queens drive 2ND floor above Millers Fashions) on Tuesday 21 Feb, 630pm to 8pm.

The cost is $25 Head instructor Free, intermediate and above grades.

Please contact Sensei if you want to attend

New Year

Welcome to 2012!

This year we have many goals in mind. Not only are 4 of our top students grading for their Black Belt but many others are preparing for their next coloured belt.
This year we hope to focus more on self motivation and fitness discipline.

Message of Saiko Shiran Goshi Yamaguchi

On March 11, 2011, there was a large earthquake and tsunami in Eastern
Japan. The magnitude of the earthquake was rated at 9.0 and was followed by
many strong aftershocks. Due to this and the following tsunami, there was a
large amount of damage to the areas near the epicenter. Since this incident
was broadcast all over the world, we recieved many messages from the various
Block and Country directors, as well as many other I.K.G.A. members. We are
grateful for your concerns, kind words, and support.

There have been many rescue parties from various countries who have brought
supplies from their respective countries. We are very grateful for their
support and help through these difficult times.

Although we were hit by the earthquake here in Tokyo and received some
damage, please rest assured that the hombu dojo is undamaged and we are
unharmed. However, there has been damage to some of the dojos, members,
families, and friends of J.K.G.A. Due to the scale of this incident, it has
become not just a problem for one or two areas, but a problem for the whole
of Japan.

Also, due to the loss of several nuclear power plants, Japan is experiencing
a power shortage, so the government is currently implementing rolling
blackouts across Eastern Japan. This will make it very difficult for speedy
communications between the hombu and the rest of the I.K.G.A. due to the
impact on computers and telephones this will have. Despite this, we will try
to continue to operate and handle our responsibilities as the headquarters
for I.K.G.A., however, please bear with us if there are delays in responses
and understand that we are doing our best to deal with the current
situation.

Lastly, we would like to express our gratitude to your kindness and support.
We will contact you again when things get settled.

Saiko Shihan Goshi Yamaguchi, the President of International Karate-do
Goju-kai Association (I.K.G.A.)

2011

We have offically begun 2011 class now. It's great to see lots of new faces in the club. Good luck to those who are studying out of Wellington, we are looking forward to seeing you in your holidays. Please note the Junior Monday class has been cancelled for the first 2 terms due to a University class. This class will continue in the last 2 terms.
There is also a new class beginning on Saturday morning. This class is for new students aged 8-10. However, everyone is invited to self-train at the back of the hall.
There are no events coming up in this term (yet).

Grand Master Goshi Yamaguchi Seminar

Yamaguchi Sensei from Japan
This seminar was fantastic. It was held at Victoria University's Recreation center on Sunday evening (5/09/10). Many students and Teachers attended and took part in various activities.

Check out some of the Photos of when the Grand Master came to our dojo here

http://picasaweb.google.com/Lydia.Szapiro/EastbourneKarateDojoGrandMasterSVisit2010?feat=email

Japan Festival Demonstration

As well as the training session at Victoria University at 4pm on the Sunday (5th september), the Grand Master Goshi Yamaguchi will be doing a demonstation at Wellington Town hall.

The Festival schedule begins at 1:30pm but Yamaguchi will only be demonstration at 2:30pm

This is a free event so bring all you friends and family