Fang Shen Do Toronto Fall Testing Success!

On October 3rd 2013, the Toronto Fang Shen Do location held their fall testing day.  It was a great success, as both the students and the instructors worked very hard to ensure that they were properly prepared for the test (s).

 As you may have heard, we had 15 students move up the ranks that day. As I mentioned to the students, when a student is well prepared, I truly enjoy the testing process.  It is particularly gratifying to see a student progress towards his/her eventual goal of Black Sash.  I was also touched by the nice comments and compliments that we heard from the parents that night – thank you very much. 

The night flew by, as I did test after test – I could not believe how quickly time passed as I looked up to see that another class was finished.  I guess it is true “Time Flies when you are having fun”.  Sijo always teaches us that the joy is in the journey and that we should take pride in our accomplishments in moving up the ranks. 

For this reason, I always encourage the students to set a goal for their next rank and work towards it.  As they often say , if you don’t know where you are going, any direction will take you there. The Fang Shen Do ranking system is specifically designed to give you a solid foundation of martial art techniques, physical strength and conditioning as well as mastery in the system.  The secret is not to rush your progress, as the skills need to develop, but at the same time to progress at a pace that keeps you sharp and motivated.

As professional instructors, it is our job to oversee the student’s progress, match it to their ability, and keep them on track.   My opinion is that it is just as detrimental to your training to not progress through the ranks as it is to progress too quickly . I personally have a goal to see JH, CH, DS, DW and SN test in the very near future – You know who you are !!

Our takeaways this week:            

1.  Set a goal (date) for your next rank; 

2.   Work hard towards that goal;

3.  If there is something on the outline you do not understand – ask the instructor;

4.   Wear your sash in the FSD class

Stay Solid,

Sifu Scott