08 Mar Guidelines for Promotions at Elevate MMA Academy
One incredibly common question for new students involves the rate of promotions as well as
what is required of a student to achieve a promotion. For me this breaks down to 4 very simple
categories
I. Performance on the mats
Simply put, can you effectively utilize techniques in the curriculum in various situations? I expect that at each belt level there is a certain level of actual proficiency. This proficiency should be reflected in your day to day training.
II. Knowledge Base
Both depth and breadth will be required. You must understand certain techniques very deeply, develop your own understanding of them, and at the highest level be able to pass them on to others. At the same time your general knowledge should remove blind spots and give you a solid base in every aspect of training.
III. Behavior in the Academy
If our entire Academy followed your example would we be better off or worse. Are you on time to class? A great partner? Do you put in extra effort, support teammates, and contribute to the Academy’s growth? All of this is important in moving forward in the martial arts.
IV. Example you set outside the Academy
How you carry yourself outside of the academy absolutely matters as well. How you pursue goals, treat others, and the positive contributions you make to the world are absolutely a part of the process. Simply training does not mean you become a better person, but the goal is for all of us to create a positive environment with effects that bleed over into other areas of life.
100% Mastery is not necessary to move up to the next belt level. However, all 4 areas should be addressed and constant progress should be made. Strengths get reinforced, weaknesses get shored up, and eventually you will be a well rounded Black Belt representing the Academy both on and off the mats.