Belt testing

Last Saturday was a big day in Austin's world. He has been waiting since November to be able to test again! He is loving karate and tries very hard to do his best. This Saturday was no exception. He even got the video to practice with. He listens to the instructor's and follows what they say.

Here he shows off his kicking skills. I don't know if I explained this last time but belt testing is not a pass or fail thing. It is a confidence builder in your ability to do what you have been taught. So these younger guys practice and test in groups. The leaders or black belt instructors evaluate each student during learning sessions to see if they are ready to test.

These are some moves to protect yourself from someone trying to attack you. I must say that as the mom of a boy I am pro "get away if you can but fight ONLY if you have no other choice". Of coarse with a father that believes that if someone looks at you cross eyed you should beat them to a pulp we are having difficulty trying to decide the best parenting at the moment. Austin's teaching master has explained to Austin that he should try to get away, not to strike first but if someone hurts you where to strike. (hmm, was mom right???)

This was the first time Austin got to break a board. Let me tell you, you have never seen a guy so excited and so proud of himself! It is done with a palm strike or what us uneducated people call the heel of you hand. Some what brutal! I guess it's a boy thing and Mom's just don't understand!

Austin, glowing with pride, was awarded the yellow belt and all the responsibilities that come with it, including continued practice, self control and respect. He was glowing!

This is Austin and 'Grand Master'. He is the top teacher and owner of the school. He is also a 7th level black belt! OMG! A truly wonderful man and teacher! He signed Austin's board and gave him lots of encouragement to keep practicing and we went home with a boy that kept saying "Mom, can you believe it, can you believe it??" What a day!