Winter has been long and cold, but spring is finally in sight! This past week, we held belt gradings for students ranging in age from six to fifty-something 😉, each demonstrating their dedication and progress in their martial arts journey.

Next week, several Tiny Tigers will have their turn to test in class, and on Friday, a group of teens will step up to challenge themselves.

On Wednesday evening, three dedicated Hapkidoin advanced through their adult intermediate levels. They faced three intense rounds of surprise attacks from their classmates, never knowing when or from where the next one would come. This was not a multiple-opponent drill (that’s Black Belt territory!); rather, it was designed to develop a mindset of response rather than reaction, testing their endurance and ability to perform under stress. They met the challenge with incredible determination. Each of them even completed their third round blindfolded, reacting to grabs and holds to showcase their understanding of concepts, methods, and principles. To conclude, they successfully located a board by listening to their board holders’ movements and executed either a spinning back kick or a spinning back side kick. We are excited to see them continue their journey toward Black Belt and beyond!

Saturday, March 1st, was another incredible day on the mat. Seven children from different classes came together to complete their three rounds in the circle, followed by their required board breaks in front of a panel of five Black Belts. They excelled! After the first round, they pushed their limits even further with a conditioning circuit of push-ups, jumping jacks, and running in place after each person’s turn.

Belt grading is about far more than just assessing skills—it is a lesson, just like every other day on the mat. The key difference lies in how students perceive their environment and manage the stress that naturally arises from those perceptions. Every class, every drill, and every belt grading serves as training for handling life’s inevitable challenges with resilience, focus, and strength.

Today was especially significant as Mr. Ryder led his first belt grading since becoming a certified assistant instructor. His organization and leadership impressed both Master Ava and I, and we could not be prouder.

We love watching students of all ages discover Strength of Body, Focus of Mind, and Calmness of Spirit.