How to Test for My Yellow Belt

Martial arts schools often use a belt-ranking system. A student's belt color signifies his skill level. A yellow belt is usually one of the first belts that you can test for in the martial arts. Styles such as taekwondo and karate have specific requirements for earning this belt. To earn this rank, you must proficiently perform certain kicks, strikes, blocks, forms and self-defense moves. Before you wrap a yellow belt around your waist, you'll need to take some steps toward this goal.

Things You'll Need

  • Mirror
  • Kicking shield
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Instructions

    • 1

      Visit local martial arts studios. Ask the instructor if you can watch a class. Find out how much each studio charges for classes, uniforms and tests. Ask if you are required to sign a contract.

    • 2

      Determine which martial arts style is the best fit for you. Consider whether you want to focus on kicking, striking, weapons use or ground-fighting techniques. Make sure that the school that you choose has a belt-ranking system.

    • 3

      Begin taking classes. Do not get frustrated if some of the techniques are difficult to perform or hard to remember. Ask questions or try to get additional help after class if you do not understand a technique. Try to get a copy of the list of requirements for yellow belt.

    • 4

      Set up a practice schedule at home and stick to it. Try practicing in front of a mirror to make sure your techniques look correct. Do the appropriate physical conditioning work. Improve your performance in class by doing some cardiovascular and resistance exercises at home.

    • 5

      Practice your blocking techniques. Make sure you are blocking with the correct part of your arm or hand. Ask a training partner to slowly punch or kick at you. Develop your timing as you block her techniques.

    • 6

      Work on your punching and striking techniques. Make sure you are punching with your knuckles, and make sure your fists are tight. Do not put your thumb inside your fist, or you may hurt your hand.

    • 7

      Practice your kicking techniques. Make sure you stretch efficiently before performing kicks. Develop your power by kicking a padded shield or heavy bag. Do not kick with your toes; kick with the ball of your foot when performing a basic front kick.

    • 8

      Find a training partner to practice self-defense moves with you. Tell your partner to grab you, and escape his grabs. Perform these techniques with speed and power. Pretend that you are truly being grabbed by an attacker --- but do not harm your training partner.

    • 9

      Practice choreographed routines known as katas or forms. Repeatedly perform your katas until you can complete them without hesitation. Make sure you understand the practical applications of the moves in the katas.

    • 10

      Increase the frequency of your practice sessions in the days leading up to your yellow belt test. Videotape yourself performing your techniques so that you can critique your moves. Practice your techniques in front of family members so that you are prepared to perform in front of a group.

    • 11

      Give a complete effort on your yellow belt test. Show the judges that you truly want to earn your belt, and that you are a dedicated martial artist. Remember to be respectful of the judges, and do not forget traditions such as bowing. Make sure that your uniform is clean, and that you are wearing it correctly.

    • 12

      Take some time to celebrate your victory after you pass your yellow belt test --- then start preparing for your next belt test.