you know, I always had a problem with this. I came up where you learned YOUR form. not higher. A first DAN was supposed to take the time between DANS to master that form along with the other things needed to know between ranks. I see the Pros and Cons of this. The Pro is, we get to actually learn forms that we couldnt learn until we were too old to actually do it. The Cons, well simple, like I said people not taking the time to perfect a form. Always looking to the Higher form to do.
That being said, I cheated as a child. I watched the higher ranks do the forms and I practiced them at home. I knew them 2 and 3 belts higher than my current rank and always had them perfected before i got that rank. But this isnt for everyone. Sure there were exceptions, but some dont need to be confused with more stuff.
And I know what most will say, they shouldnt compete then cause they're not ready. Yes and NO. I wont let someone compete in a sparring division if I feel they arent ready, but forms?!?!?!? EVERYONE should compete in forms for one simple reason.... experience. Just like public speaking, people should experience the feel. It is part of your Martial Arts training. To be confronted by an overwhelming emotional state and control your body and mind.
"so local tournaments".... well, a regional is a local tournament. No surprise there but there is absolutely nothing special about a regional qualifier. I have been to local tournaments that were better run and had better competition. Its just another event. another oppurtunity to learn and control your emotions.
So where does that leave me?
good question. I'ma have to figure it out. I want everyone to enjoy the experience/terror of performing in front of people.... and I still want to keep my semi-traditional sense of your rank, your form.
rant over.
That being said, I cheated as a child. I watched the higher ranks do the forms and I practiced them at home. I knew them 2 and 3 belts higher than my current rank and always had them perfected before i got that rank. But this isnt for everyone. Sure there were exceptions, but some dont need to be confused with more stuff.
And I know what most will say, they shouldnt compete then cause they're not ready. Yes and NO. I wont let someone compete in a sparring division if I feel they arent ready, but forms?!?!?!? EVERYONE should compete in forms for one simple reason.... experience. Just like public speaking, people should experience the feel. It is part of your Martial Arts training. To be confronted by an overwhelming emotional state and control your body and mind.
"so local tournaments".... well, a regional is a local tournament. No surprise there but there is absolutely nothing special about a regional qualifier. I have been to local tournaments that were better run and had better competition. Its just another event. another oppurtunity to learn and control your emotions.
So where does that leave me?
good question. I'ma have to figure it out. I want everyone to enjoy the experience/terror of performing in front of people.... and I still want to keep my semi-traditional sense of your rank, your form.
rant over.