Black Belt Questions

Question 1

What does it mean to be a black belt? (6 things)

Answer 1

Being a black belt means different things to different people. It means you are constantly

1. striving for perfection of character,
2. keeping high personal standards,
3. demonstrating self-control,
4. living a disciplined lifestyle,
5. making positive contributions to the community and
6. practicing the martial arts.

Question 2

What does karate mean? (2 things)

Answer 2

Karate means empty hand and empty of emotion.

1. Empty hand means the techniques are done without weapons.
2. Empty of emotion means the importance of staying centered at all times.

Question 3

Explain the meaning of the bow

and where it comes from.

Answer 3

A traditional Kosho Ryu Kenpo bow developed in Japan by the Mitose Clan.

• Kigan = Peace. I always search for a peaceful resolution.
• Kaishu = Optimism. I always look for the good.
• Hoken = Humility. “I’m not boastful.”

Question 4

What is true self-defense?

Answer 4

True defense is defending yourself against:

1. physical aggression,
2. poor health
3. bad attitude
4. negative energy
5. injury
6. apathy

Question 5

How do you practice true self-defense?

Answer 5

You practice true self-defense by living a positive, proactive, martial arts lifestyle.

Question 6

How do you deal with a crisis situation?

Answer 6

1. Acknowledge the situation: “I need to deal with it.”
2. Determine the desired outcome.
3. Ask: “Am I feeling the appropriate emotion to help me deal with this situation?”
4. Take immediate action.
5. Stay the course.

Question 7

What are the ABC’s of conflict avoidance?

Answer 7

• Avoid dangerous situations.
• Be calm and breathe.
• Communicate with confidence.
• Don’t put yourself in a worse situation.
• Environment can create opportunities.
• “Fire” is better to yell than “help”.
• Get away.
• Hit hard, hit fast, hit first, hit last.

Question 8

How do you diffuse a situation before someone becomes violent?

Answer 8

• Leave the scene immediately.
• Take a few breaths to remain calm.
• Assume a confident and empowering physiology.
• Position yourself in a defensive, non-confrontational stance.
• Keep eye contact and state you want to resolve the situation peacefully.

Question 9

If physical conflict is unavoidable, what steps to ensure physical safety?

Answer 9

To stack odds in your favor:

• Determine the desired outcome.
• If to escape = Stun and run.
• If to contain = Control through immobilization and pain compliance.
• If to subdue = Anything and everything.

Question 10

What can you expect to happen in a violent confrontation?

Answer 10

• Expect to get hit.
• Expect to get hurt.
• Expect the unexpected.
• No one wins.

Question 11

Who is a mighty person?

Answer 11

One who has control over their emotions and can make friends of their enemies.

Question 12

Principles of Black Belt

Answer 12

As a dedicated student of the martial arts I will live by the principals of black belt:

Modesty, Courtesy, Integrity

Perseverance, Courage and Indomitable Spirit.

My goal is black belt excellence.

I will lead by example.

Question 13

Name the 4 styles in the Kovar’s martial arts blend.

Answer 13

• Kenpo
• Kosho Ryu Kenpo
• Arnis
• Jiu Jitsu
• Muay Thai
• Karate

Question 14

Name 4 benefits of the Kiai

Answer 14

• Increased focus
• Strength
• Surprise
• Minimize injury
• Fear
• Awareness

Question 15

What are the 5 areas of testing for black belt?

Answer 15

1. Attitude, attendance and protocol
2. Basics in application
3. Knowledge of curriculum
4. Health and fitness
5. Spirit and energy