Interesting timing on this post for me because I've recently been looking to get back into martial arts after a long layoff. I'm no expert by any means, but I have enough experience with different systems to view classes with a critical eye. Unfortunately I've been really disappointed with how much belt factory activity is out there. Honestly, I like a good demo - whether it be TKD or Shotokan - doesn't really matter to me. If the practitioners are good and seem dedicated, I try to take it for what it is - a demo intended to be fun. The arrogance that this outfit demonstrated is intolerable however and just flies in the face of everything I think m.a. should be about. I don't think that you have to be the best in the world to earn a black belt, but I'm adamant that you should have put in the time and effort and at least become as knowledgable and skilled as possible in the techniques. I've been shocked at what I've seen from advanced students at some of the schools I've been to. Some of them seemed to be attending their first day in the system - really sad. And I'm sorry, maybe I'm old school, but no matter how good a 10 year old is, I'm pretty turned off by schools with a raft full of elementary school black belts. And I'm NOT going to be in a class with them as one instructor told me I would be recently. Yes, as a 36 year old grown up, I would like to be in a class with 10 year olds - that really boosts my confidence and inspires my dedication to taking this seriously. Anyway, sorry for the rant. Looks like this hit a nerve with me today! LOL!
