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Myths and Facts About Being a Black Belt
Posted on 25. Aug, 2010 by SeanHaleyMuayThai in Blog, Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Kids Classes, Muay Thai Kickboxing, Oregon Martial Arts
As “Total Defense” readers, I want you to always have the straight scoop on the Martial Arts. So I thought I would take some time to “de-bunk” some of the misconceptions about the Martial Arts.
Myth (in fact, the #1 all-time “full of baloney” idea about the Martial Arts): The law says that a Black Belt has to register his hands with the local police department.
Fact: No such law exists! A Black Belt has the same legal right to protect himself as everybody else, and the same liability, responsibility to not use skills offensively as anybody else!
Myth: Black Belts are invincible.
Fact: Nope. They are highly skilled, and way more likely to be able to defend themselves than non-Black Belts…but nobody is invincible.
Myth: It takes a whole lifetime of study to become a Black Belt.
Fact: Not so! Training 2 – 3 times a week, you can earn your Black Belt in our Muay Thai Program in four years. For Gracie Jiu-Jitsu it takes an average of 4 years to get a Purple but 10 years to be a Black Belt.
Myth: Black Belt represents the end of a students Martial Art training.
Fact: Hardly! For the serious Martial Art student, Black Belt is just the beginning! Many Black Belts continue to study for their entire lives. It’s a cool thing to get a Black Belt…but the best thing is to be a Black Belt…by continuing to study after earning the Black Belt.
Myth: Martial Arts are mostly for young kids.
Fact: Nope! I know plenty of Black Belts…even Masters, who didn’t start their Martial Art training until they were in their twenties and thirties!
Myth: Black Belt means you are a tough guy.
Fact: Not exactly. A true Black Belt is a tough guy, but he doesn’t go around acting like a tough guy. In fact, the guys that I consider to be true Black Belts conduct themselves, at all times, like gentlemen. This is the true spirit of the Martial Arts.
Lots of misinformation and rumor surround the Martial Arts. If you enjoy the Martial Arts, cut through the nonsense! Get the facts! Pursue the truth!
And remember, friends, in the spirit of the Martial Arts, be strong in facing life’s challenges, and gentle toward all fellow human beings!
See you on the mat,
Sean Haley
P.S. Many of our readers have called to find out how to learn more about “Total Defense” topics. As a courtesy, I will offer a Free One-Week Trial Membership at “Oregon Martial Arts to all “Total Defense” readers. If you would like to register, just call us at 503-598-8055 Register soon; classes fill up quickly.
