T esting for your next belt is a process of demonstrating that you have learned the required material and are able to execute it with precision, power and speed (in that order of importance). Your are never tested unless your primary instructor deems you ready. (This means few people ever fail a test and you almost never have to pay your test fee more than once per level). When Grandmaster Sin is testing, you will first be pre-tested by your primary instructor (the pre-test is free) to insure you are ready. It is an honor to test before the grandmaster and quite an exhilarating experience too. You should view your test a as rite of passage and something to revel in, not a dreaded examination. We understand that many adults have not been "tested" in this way for many years if at all. That's why we make certain you are ready to test so that all you have to deal with is "test anxiety" and not the material itself. Remember, only daily challenge can transform.

Testing Protocol

            1. Wear a clean uniform in good repair and follow the rules for jewelry and nails as usual

            2. You will first bow to the instructor upon rising when your name is called.

            3. After you have executed the form, bow and then bow to the instructor as you await further directions.

            4. Should you begin to run out of room, stop and bow, turn (or back up if necessary) and continue.

            5. Should you make a mistake, bow to the instructor and repeat the form if it is a short kata or sparring technique. If it is a long form you can bow and then take up where you left off.

            6. Never show any emotion during a test (I.e. irritation with yourself) and never swear. It is poor sportsmanship and will put a negative gloom over your test causing you to make more mistakes. Think positively!

            7. Be prepared to be tested over everything you know up to your level. If you are testing for black belt, be prepared to perform all material from white to black! Sparring is also a component of your test. You should demonstrate your ability to defend and to attack WITH CONTROL. Don't get crazy during the sparring portion. Those who humiliate their sparring partners during the test only make themselves look bad.

Test Fees

Why is there a test fee, you may wonder? A portion of your test fee covers the cost of your belt and a portion of it goes to Grandmaster Sin, regardless of whether he does the testing himself. This is how we support the Grandmaster for providing us with all of this material and so much more! (See introduction!) The fees up to first black belt are listed as follows.

When to pay, when to arrive, when to warm up, and more...

Test fees are due PRIOR to your test. Preferably the day before as Sifu Bill is usually very busy the day off testing. Make checks out to Shaolin-Do. Arrive at least 15 minutes before testing. Once testing begins there is no time given to warm up, so either warm up before you arrive or arrive early enough to warm up at the school. If your test involves weapons, have them ready and nearby for easy access during the test. Spectators are allowed for every test up to black. Black belt tests are closed except for a supporter or two.  In the event that Grandmaster Sin is performing the test, we will line up for a formal bow-in upon his arrival. He will bow the class in and begin the test.

Following a test, there will be time for you to have your uniform signed by Grandmaster Sin. Frequently he will offer a seminar during his visit and we will notify everyone in advance.