Tests are a powerfully important part of life. They are the times when we truly see what we’re made of; tests show us where we need to improve, and they also illuminate strengths we may not have been aware of. There are many different kinds of tests in the course of life, but testing in martial arts generally involves pushing your mind and body beyond what you believe is your limit and then seeing how you cope out of your comfort zone. And truly, whether you “pass” or “fail” the technique portion is secondary to the manner in which you tackle the challenge. Did you keep pushing forward? Did you assist your teammate even when you yourself were on the verge of collapse? These are the things that a test is supposed to reveal. At Elite Training Center, we firmly believe in the testing process and all of our programs, from kickboxing to BJJ to Kali to Krav Maga to MMA, have a structure with defined times for students to test.
Tests are not supposed to be easy! Part of their purpose is to discipline your mind to persevere when your body wants to quit. There are some ways of coaching yourself that can help you stay focused and on task when you feel like you can’t continue. The thing that works the best for me is to set mini goals. When you’re instructed to kick 60 times, don’t think of the whole set of 60. This is overwhelming! Instead, think about getting through the first 10 (or 3!), and keep meeting each mini goal. You’ll be at the end before you know it. Although many people use this technique, I personally discovered it while climbing mountains. I’d pick a point about 5-10 feet uphill, hike to it, and then shift focus to another spot. It was almost hypnotic, and when I’d take a break and turn around I was amazed at how high I’d climbed without even thinking about it. The idea is to get your body and mind into a rhythm; this method takes an overwhelming task and breaks it into manageable chunks that your mind believes you can handle, and therefore your body gets it done.
Another tip: Stop looking at the clock! I’m guilty of it, and I can confirm that all it does is discourage you. Time only passes quickly when you cease thinking about it! Try to get in the moment. The above technique is great for that. Additionally, some people go to a “happy place,” closing their eyes (if feasible) and blocking out the pain. I like to pick a point (on the wall or mat, depending on what we’re doing) and focus on it intently. Every time my mind starts to wander to my aching arms or legs, I stop and pull it right back to a hyper focus on that point. I don’t pretend to know why this works or even if it works for anyone besides me, but it may be worthwhile to give it a try!
Testing in martial arts, pushing your mind and body, is an awesome thing. It teaches you about yourself, it bonds you to your teammates, it makes you stronger regardless of the day’s outcome. Sometimes we learn the most from tests that we initially fail…because when we come back to try again and then succeed it means so much more. This is how testing reveals your heart. Not all champions wear belts; any person willing to test themselves despite their fear and trepidation has the heart of a champion, even if they don’t know it yet! And with each test, that confidence and heart grows stronger. So push yourself! Believe that you, together with your team, will succeed! Your instructors and fellow students are here to help you every step of the way, especially at these important defining moments.
~Katie
Elite Training Center 1628 South Pacific Coast Highway,
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(310) 543-1600
www.elitetrainingcenter.net
