What
does a shodan- 1st level black belt mean in the martial arts?
In
a previous martial arts post we explored the two elements to black belt, the
physical techniques that are required, and the spirit based components that are
required.
Regarding
the physical techniques these *easy* part in that one has learned them,
polished them, and can demonstrate a specific set of movement and ability at a
first degree level of black belt.
What
this is, naturally will depend on the school, style, and tradition as different
arts approach things differently.
Regarding
the spirit based side, this is a bit more complicated.
Concepts
such as fighting spirit, warrior heart, immovable heart, and other ways of
carrying the movement cannot be learned as in techniques, they must be
cultivated through direct training and transmission.
Passing
that, one arrives as shoden- 1st degree black belt, but what does it
mean?
It
means that one has a solid foundation of the basic movement and expectations of
the art they study.
It
means that one *is* a student of the school, and disciple of the training. Past
actions and how one carries oneself might have gotten a pass as a kyu student
as one was learning and growing, but now…
…the
question will be- who is your teacher?
It
means the start of more responsibility, seeing more waza, kata, forms, and
patterns- now expected to begin mastering and being able to move in that way.
It
means a journey of new expectations and viewing the martial arts.