Black belt testings in the American Martial Arts Institute are a time of demonstrating knowledge learned and an opportunity to learn more. On December 11, 2004, nine individuals tested and earned black belt rank. Three individuals tested for the rank of first degree black belt, two for adult status and one for junior rank status.

The rank of first degree black belt, whether in Japan, Korea, China, or the United States, is recognized as one of the most prestigious ranks in the martial arts. There are 10 levels of black belt in many styles, including American Eagle Style, but first dan or first degree black belt is the milestone of achievement for the normal marital arts practitioner. In the American Martial Arts Institute the average time to earn this rank is five and one half to seven years.

Some schools surround this testing with secrecy and fear, rather than a test of skill and ability. The American Martial Arts Institute sees this testing as a time of demonstrating knowledge learned and the opportunity to learn more. Students are allowed to talk about their testing and achievement. Numerous areas are tested, and the areas emphasized and written examination change with each testing.

The testing lasted six hours and required the candidates to demonstrate punches, kicks, extension tools, basic forms, self-defense against empty-handed attackers, knives, and guns, takedowns, sparring against one, two and three opponents simultaneously, oral questions and answers and, most importantly, the demonstration of up to 16 different katas or forms. Each candidate completed an intensive written examination that lasted 45 minutes to 1 ½ hours depending on rank. The judging panel was made up of seven titled Black Belt instructors. This group was headed up by Grand Master Clifford C. Crandall.

Keeping alive the importance of each black belt rank and the complexity of each level the American Martial Arts Institute holds to the old guidelines of a minimum two years but normally more as a guide for the time needed between each rank of black belt. This time is looked at as an opportunity to grow mentally and emotionally. The individual who is testing for second degree or higher has demonstrated that they can physically learn moves and understand the concepts of what the school, style and philosophy is by the fact that they earned their first degree. The difficulty as the individual continues the road of being a black belt student of the arts is in the ability to put into practice as a part of their character and philosophy that which they have learned. As they approach the demanding levels of second, third, fourth degree, their ability to stimulate growth in their school and their general promotion of their art which in turn will allow others to practice and enjoy the physical and mental rewards of the path which they have walked.

The individuals testing for second degree and fourth degree were required to demonstrate additional weapons forms and up to sixteen additional black belt katas from traditional Korean, Japanese, and Chinese styles as well as their American style.

The individuals testing for fifth degree were required to demonstrate three weapons forms and up to thirty-one black belt katas from traditional Korean, Japanese, and Chinese styles as well as their American style. This was combined with all other traditional parts of the testing including the written exam with a large segment of which was concept oriented answers in essay form.

CONGRATUALATIONS to all of the individuals who tested and to their instructors in the achievement of these very prestigious ranks. All testings are posted at all training locations as well as on our school web site.