Ask to grade or wait to be asked

[millicentitf]

I graded for my black belt in 2005 I am still a first degree, others have since graded in my club but nothing has been said to me.
Im not into the sport side of taekwindo and do not believe in it what so ever (is it a sport or a martial art it can't be both). I believe if i was interseted in the sport side i would have graded by now.

What to others think.

[Stuart Anslow (Editor)]

Feb 25, 2010 3:31:58 GMT millicentitf said:

I graded for my black belt in 2005 I am still a first degree, others have since graded in my club but nothing has been said to me.
Im not into the sport side of taekwindo and do not believe in it what so ever (is it a sport or a martial art it can't be both). I believe if i was interseted in the sport side i would have graded by now.

What to others think.

I think maybe you should drop a hint, rather than ask straight outright - if your club works on iviting people to grade.

Stuart

[kaz]

hi

for colour belts we invite students to grade as we like to maintain standards and that students put the effort into training. For Dan grades they must first be time qualified and then they can apply in writting their wish to grade as many things are taken into consideration. The application takes away the embarassing barrier of being perhaps told out right no, an it then also allows you to back up your reasons for wanting to grade.
Hope this helps

[Koos Fockens]

I can understand your 'confusion', however, before you ask anyone, look in the mirror so to speak and ask yourself, am I ready, and do I know all that is required well enough to have a chance to pass? If you have doubts, discuss them first, this may lead to further talks about future gradings. If you have none, try playing that tactical game if your unsure of your instructors response when asked outright, however I should hope that he would appreciate honest, genuine and direct questions too. Good luck!

[jmctkd]

Hi there
Generaly, the rule of thumb i am led to believe is, Ask for 2nd and 3rd gradings, but 4th and 5th is invite.
All others are time and dedication awarded if believed deserved.

[Probudo]

The rules and grading criteria of your club should be clear and transparent. Unfortunately many martial arts clubs operate more like cults than clubs.
You should be able to discuss any issue with your instructor/coach, if you cant, find another club or style.

[ky0sa]

I find it strange that the question has to be asked. I mean, the expectations should be well known to members of the organisation, shouldn't they? So that students know where they stand and examiners/instructors don't get asked questions they might feel awkward answering.