You’ve worked hard to learn everything you can about Israeli self-defense training, and now it’s time to test for your first belt! You are probably very excited and a little nervous, and that’s normal.
Earning your Yellow Belt is a huge accomplishment on your Krav Maga journey. You might fear failure, but if you’ve put in the hours and taken care of your body throughout training, you will have everything you need to succeed. That said, it can be helpful to have an idea of what to expect ahead of time.
Why is the Belt System in Israeli Self-defense Training?
In Krav Maga, colored belts are used to determine a student’s level of expertise. The belt levels are:
- Yellow
- Orange
- Green
- Blue
- Brown
- Black
The black belt is the highest Krav Maga ranking that you can achieve as a student. However, from there, you can continue your training and advance the skill set you carry as a black belt.
What is the First Belt Earned in Israeli Self-defense Training?
After taking the entry-level Krav Maga class, you will be eligible to test for your Yellow Belt. This class includes education on proper punches, chokes, headlocks, kicks, and grabs. If you dedicate yourself to practice, it should take approximately four months to learn everything you need to test for your Yellow Belt. Once you complete the test, it will take about a week for your results to be evaluated. Then, it will be determined whether or not you have passed. If you haven’t, your instructors will work with you to figure out what you still need to learn to advance.
What Should You Expect From the Belt-testing Process?
When you test for your belt, your instructor will have you demonstrate everything you have learned with a sparring partner. Belt testing in Israeli self-defense training is not something that is taken lightly, so you should expect to be pushed to the limit. Testing can take between four and eight hours, so plan your day accordingly, and bring along plenty of snacks and drinks to ensure you stay energetic and hydrated throughout the process.
How Can You Best Prepare for Belt Testing in Israeli Self-defense Training?
Just like you need to prepare for your classes, you also must prepare for belt testing.
- Don’t Test Until You’re Ready
The point of learning Krav Maga is to strengthen and better yourself, not show off a belt. If you’re unsure about some of the techniques you’ve learned in class, and you don’t feel ready to test for your belt yet, it’s okay to let your instructor know. This is your Krav Maga journey, not anyone else’s. It’s better to progress at a pace that works for you than to focus on keeping up with the other people in your class.
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Your belt test will be much more difficult if you’re tired, so always try to get plenty of sleep prior to the day of the test. If you’re nervous and have trouble sleeping, try focusing on a relaxing book, taking a hot bath, or meditating before bed.
- Fuel Up
Eat a good breakfast and drink plenty of fluids the morning of the test. You will need it!
- Believe in Yourself
Krav Maga is about strength and confidence. You’ve worked hard in Israeli self-defense training. Believe in your ability to go far and you surely will.
Krav Maga Worldwide: Begin Working Toward Your First Belt Today
Does the idea of earning a belt in Krav Maga entice you? If so, contact us today to sign up for a class. Our qualified instructors are ready to guide you every step of the way.
