A Taekwondo grading day is an event where students undergo a formal evaluation to advance to the next rank or belt level. The grading day is an important milestone in a practitioner's journey, as it allows them to demonstrate their proficiency in the techniques, forms, and sparring skills required for the next level. Various physical and technical skills are performed in front of a panel of judges, composed of higher-ranking instructors.
In this blog post, Sharon Petruv, Club Assistant & Head of Media and Marketing shares her firsthand account of the recent grading day, offering valuable insights based on her own experiences of navigating this challenging yet rewarding process.
Another fantastic turnout from our colour belts, as usual the day starts out with nerves jangling and with non-graders on hand to run through patterns and theory, we were off. Considering most of December is filled with Christmas celebrations and the dreadful weather since then, training has been difficult to navigate.
However, what a display of dedicated effort, everyone was bringing it to the floor and punching out the moves with force.
Just a thought from me...
I know that trying to coordinate hand/feet positioning is enough, but once these moves are etched on the brain, it would be good to hear your voice. From personal experience it does help with breathing, keeping your energy and concentration high. Results on Tuesday and pics for your folders, fingers-crossed!
Just wanted to give a shout out to Louise and the boys, who on the spur of the moment managed to accommodate lunch for 10, bacon rolls, sausage rolls, snacks and dips, tea and coffee, were much appreciated. Thanks again.
And so, to the afternoon session...
Have to say Eva and I, not being the kit on and get in the ring kind of girls, we were apprehensive. however works out, we had a great time! No Sparing gear required.
Master McNally put together an excellent program to get us started in competitive sparing. I must emphasise the starting because that is what we are, all beginners. Even the 4th Dan amongst us said he had learnt more in the first 30 minutes than he had in 16 years.
With a vast knowledge and experience of competitive sparring, Master McNally broke down basic moves, explaining why and how they would be effective and gave us a lot to work on and bring to future sparring lessons.
We are very lucky to have him take this time to teach us and I would strongly recommend to all belt colours and ages to join in and have a go. We had lots of laughs and fun, with games to improve reaction and speed.
That’s enough from me, but if you have any thoughts you would like to share or feedback, we would love to hear from you. See you Tuesday and good luck graders.
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