Why do we test?

by Joel Cross, Cho Dan Bo

Why do we have ranking tests? Is testing merely an obstacle between our current rank and the next? Or is testing much more then that? Actually, testing plays a very important role in our training and development as martial artists.

The first and most obvious reason we test is to prove to our instructors that we know our required techniques. It would be ridiculous to be promoted without first proving you know what you need to know, both physically and mentally. Testing also gives our instructors a chance to see what our weaknesses are. Thus they are able to tell us what we need to work on to continue to perfect our techniques.

Testing also shows our endurance, timing, power and sense of distance. For instance, if you are going for 1st Gup and after an hour and a half you aren't sweating or breathing hard, there is more then likely a lack of effort. On the other hand, if after the first fifteen minutes of a test you feel like you are going to pass out there is most likely a lack of endurance or not enough relaxation between techniques. If during one-steps you keep missing your blocks and targets you probably lack timing and distance. Testing brings all of this to light so we can improve our abilities.

Testing also shows what our attitude is like when we are under pressure. When we mess up during a form or forget a technique do we get frustrated and shake our head or do we not worry about it, adjust and keep going like nothing happened? If someone punches at us with the wrong hand are we able to adapt or do freeze up and get flustered?

An important aspect to our style of testing is that we perform all the techniques we know, not just the newest ones. This forces us to remember what we have already learned. Imagine if your test consisted of only performing a few kicks, your new one-steps, self-defense, and a form or two. Would you still practice your basics as much as you do now? Also, a half hour test does not offer much chance to show your endurance and indomitable spirit.

Testing is an excellent tool to help us improve our skills. It forces us to train hard in class so we have enough endurance to survive a two-hour test. Testing exposes both our strengths and flaws, enabling us to move forward in our training. As martial artists, the ranking test is the time where we can prove ourselves, and show our level of mastery of our techniques. Our test is our opportunity to shine...