In the middle of August they tested for their first belt. Everyone starts as a white belt, meaning "purity". They both tested for their yellow belt, meaning "the seed of knowledge". Bryce tested for his intermediate yellow belt and Matt his solid yellow belt, the youth have an extra step for their belts so they are in the same color for three steps and adults for two steps.
The tests were neat to watch - the families were allowed into the studio to watch and photograph the testing.
Bryce's test was adorable - he did his punches, blocks, a kick, followed new steps, and answered questions. He knew the information and did the right steps but he chose to switch directions when it wasn't necessary. He did great during his test and was so proud of himself.
Matt's test was inspirational, older teenagers and adults were testing for every rank from white to black belt! The knowledge these people held and were able to give during their tests was amazing! They did patterns, one steps, sparing, and recited knowledge.
It was also the first time we watched board breaking. Board breaking is required for further belt testing but not white and yellow belts, however, Matt also had the opportunity to break a board, something he had not planned on. He broke the board, and although he tried to contain his excitement, couldn't stop grinning from ear to ear.
A week later both Bryce and Matt had their belt ceremonies to receive their new yellow belts. Their dojo did a great job at awarding the new belts with ceremonies and putting on the new belts.
Now they are onto learning new steps and patterns!
.katherine.
