The Problem
Recently, I have been a part of discussions with other seasoned martial artists and school owners about rank. In those discussions, one of the ideas that continued to resurface is to get rid of the belt systems. People are being awarded rank via internet, in mass promotions, or at the end of a time period because that is what they signed up and paid for. The common feeling is that rank does not hold the same meaning that it did before and that it has become devalued because of the varying standards.
What are we teaching?
- self defense
- life skills
- values
- fitness
- a fun activity
- a social experience
- all of the above or none of the above
Where did rank come from?
In many styles, the multicolored ranking systems have only been around for around a hundred years. When researching colored rank, you will find a few different theories. The first is that Gichin Funikoshi created the ryu kyu ranking system when he was attempting to introduce karate into the Japanese school systems. The next is that Jigoro Kano created it when systemizing and introducing Judo. An old story that has been passed down from generation to generation is that the original belts were only white and black. All of the belts started out white and would change colors over time until they reached black. Next, some schools even today only have a few belts. There is the white student belt. Then, the black instructor’s belt which is usually black (or dark blue). Meanwhile, the master has his own belt that is outside or different than that of the student’s belts.
What does rank measure?
- hard work
- time spent training
- proficiency in skill
- the ability to perform the technique in a variety of situations
- the ability to implement the techniques and strategies into every day life
- the demonstration of life skills
East vs. West
The last and seemingly the most commonly reoccurring argument is the eastern mind set versus the western mind set. Many western teachers think that westerners need a ranking system that is similar to their education system which has grades k – 12 then, there is associates degree. Next there is a bachelor. Finally, there is the master’s degree and doctorate degree.
Do we need them?
Which school of thought is the best or should we adopt? I don’t know. However, I do think that with what ever method you chose the students should be educated on the process prior to beginning. Your method of promotion is consistent. Honorary titles should be just that and not tied in with the regular ranks. I would love to hear your thoughts on the topics. How do you feel?
