Update. Last week I passed my next belt test and was promoted to probationary black belt. My avatar is a pic taken from just after the test when our instructor gave us new belts and for the new black belts, new uniform tops to wear for the group picture. Also, I lost 50 lbs since late June, when I finally figured out my diet and put it together with my training and made it work. Ideally, I would like to lose another 30 to 40 lbs before the 1st Dan test in 6 months. It would help me to better execute the more athletic moves in a style that is known for its jumping and spinning kicks.