It gets right into the philosophy of Martial Arts, the very idea that we strive and we aim for a goal is ultimately very commendable. That's one of the things that appeals to many about learning a style. I only argue that the goal should not be a black piece of cloth, or a red one or any other colour. The goal should be to understand the teachings. A black belt does not necessarily epitomise that. I have learned many lessons from many people in life and in Combat Arts not every one of them came from a black belt student. Some lessons I have learned from black belt students weren't worth remembering.
The unscrupulous teachers have exploited people over these sought after bits of cloth. "fast track" courses and other bullshit marketing ploys. These are the things that destroy the combat sports by reducing them down to single factors. You train hard, you put the effort in to make it work, you listen to the right people. That is also the reward.YOU do these things. I don't know what the going rate for a grading is your style but when I look around I see the "awards for 2nd 3rd 5th 9th degrees" all go up in price on the scale.
People still ask, what grade are you? This assumes the capability and depth of understanding of a student which I would like to see us all move away from. It more likely illustrates how much a student has paid for.
As I've said in this blog before, the more important thing to look for in an instructor is "are you insured to teach". Things are certainly improving but be aware that a black belt does not make a person a qualified fitness trainer, it also doesn't assume that they are not, but I would be more inclined to ask your local gym staff for fitness advice over your martial arts instructor.
For me personally what holds more value and parity to my actual knowledge, is not my black belts but the burst noses, the fat lips and all the times I've been dumped on my arse along the way. Never be afraid to ask a white belt to a multicoloured 15th degree "Go'n show me how you fucking did that?"
