Freefighting for Black Belt

The question of what is expected of 1st Kyu students when free fighting for their 1st Dan is usually asked by the student 2 weeks before their grading.

Well the first thing to note is that they have to fight two black belts at once. But what do the examiners expect to see?

Well, this may be slightly different for each examiner, but what they are not expecting is, for the individual being graded to win.

Unfortunately I have seen many take this attitude. Individuals have attempted to 'slug it out' whilst standing between two far more powerful and skilful opponents. Their techniques fail them along with any suggestion of control, as the attempt to win against ever increasing odds.

If I thought a 1st Kyu could 'win' or easily defeat two opponents, then it would be appropriate to add a third opponent or more, until there would be great pressure on the students ability to cope.

So if you are not meant to win, what are you supposed to do?

Mental ability is the clue here. The student is expected to keep their mind under control. In Karate this should be an empty mind.

What of showing 'good spirit' whilst freefighting?

This is possible, without having to cloud your mind with desperate efforts, fear, worry or anger. It is possible to show great spirit free fighting without a single punch or kick. If a student does not understand how this can be possible, then they need to take time to ask their Sensei.

So what do the DKC expect of any individual in a Yudansha grading ?:

1) Respect for all grading partners. These are the people freefighting you.

2) The ability to keep control of your mind

3) The ability to demonstrate your mastery of Karate techniques and apply some to a stressful situation. If you can do points 1 and 2 above, then 3 will naturally follow and you are more likely to perform at the best of your ability.

Sensei Ian Hunter

copyright CKC 2003