Why We Belt Test the Way We Do

Shiba Taekwondo’s method of belt testing, created by Master Cherith Shiba, is one of a kind, purposeful, and has the student’s best interest at heart.

Students are tested individually, throughout their regular classes, on the specific requirements for their next belt.

These requirements, from white belt all the way up to the final belt prior to black belt, are provided to each student when they enroll.

This method is a lot more work for our instructors than a group testing every couple months, but our instructors only care about what is best for each student! All of our instructors wholeheartedly embrace this testing method.

Our testing methods ensure that we are not holding any student back from progressing when they are individually ready, and at the same time, ensures that we are not pushing a student too fast and they therefore fall through the cracks skill wise. We recognize, respect and work with each student right where they are at during any given class!

This also empowers our students who attend class consistently and who choose to work on their martial arts in between classes at home! When they’re ready, they’re ready!

A student who is struggling with a certain area of martial arts is given the individualized instructIon needed to conquer that skill. No matter how long it takes them! We also give them the confidence that they can do it! When they meet their requirements, they know, beyond a doubt, that they accomplished something hard and real and true and that they are overcomers!

Bottom line, we do not believe a student’s testing should be based on anyone else’s progress but their own! At Shiba Taekwondo, each student is valued as an individual with unique skill sets, strengths, obstacles and readiness. Our expert instructors help each student achieve their martial arts goals!