BATTLEMASTERS™

What - exactly - IS BattleMasters™?

BattleMasters™ is a structured martial arts program centered squarely on padded weapons. For ages 7 and up, our programs offer students the opportunity to explore historical and cultural close-range, edged weapons combat technique - and then to apply them in real-time, full-force battle simulations (games)!

It's easiest to think of our programs in the context of a traditional unarmed martial arts program like Karate or Taekwon-Do. Students attend weekly class, train and work on learning skills, movements, patterns, kata and eventually demonstrate their progress through testing and BattleGames. We have mentoring and leadership development built right in and expect our students to strive for excellence as they complete levels of challenging training to attain the vaunted Black Sash and the title of BATTLEMASTER!

So this is more than just smacking each other with padded swords?

Yes, much more! Developing and deepening self-confidence, personal mastery, and physical coordination/fitness are the larger goals of the BattleMasters™ programs. Proper behavior, focus, and participation ensure positive accomplishments - and such are the expectations of students in the program. This is so much MORE than just whacking each other with padded swords: it is the serious study of centuries-old technique and a purposeful opportunity to develop the heroic aspects of one's self. As this is the case, we honor those who created and developed these arts in the past by working to master them in the present. Discipline and dedication result in this kind of mastery.

At BattleMasters™, we have a saying:

“Practice doesn’t make perfect. Practice makes EXCELLENT!” 

Excellence is what we are striving for in all things. It is the hallmark of a true Hero…

PLEASE GO HERE FOR OUR TEACHING AND FOUNDATIONAL PHILOSOPHIES

How do students advance in levels?

The Level Tests are the gateways for student recognition of achievement and growth. 

There are two REQUIREMENTS that the testing candidate must meet in order to begin their Testing. The first is coming to the minimum number of classes for their level. The second is the submission of their Virtue Sheet for their sash.

Minimum Number of Days Required per Level Attended. Each level has a set number of MINIMUM classes the student must attend before they can be considered practiced enough to 'know' the material. Once a student has met the minimum required number of classes for their current level, they may sign up for a review of their progress during a Level Evaluation (PreTest).

The Virtue Sheet. Each level of the program has a specific VIRTUE theme. The purpose is to encourage and promote the development of these positive character values in students' lives. The understanding and positive practice of these virtues is an important part of our program. Students must complete, submit, and have the Director approve their rank specific virtue assignment BEFORE they can sign up to PreTest. This sheet includes a general definition of the word or behavior and a thoughtful, honest example describing an action the student does to demonstrate understanding and application of the particular character virtue.

The PreTest. Depending upon student motivation, determination, and practice frequency, they may or may not be ready to attempt a full Level Test. This will be revealed in the PreTest. Any serious deficiencies or gaps in technical knowledge will be noted and reviewed and the student will know exactly what to focus on for next several weeks. If the student demonstrates firm, confident technique during the PreTest, the student may sign up to take the full Level Test and a date will be scheduled, usually at the next class attendance. If the student does not demonstrate sufficient grasp of the technique during the PreTest, they will receive the PreTest notes back and be expected to PreTest again in a few weeks.

The Level Test. After successfully completing the PreTest, there is a $20 non-refundable Test Fee that must be paid prior to the Test, whether or not the student passes. During Level Tests, students will be evaluated for proper form, breathing, focus and concentration, accuracy of required technical elements, intensity of spirit, and the depth of understanding that is appropriate for the rank and age of the student testing.

Rank Promotion and awarding of sashes and certificates is usually done at the next class time for that class. Each passing student is called up individually to receive their new sash and a signed certificate and given a quick photo opportunity.

Isn't this just for kids (boys mainly)?

Absolutely not! Adults of all ages can thoroughly enjoy the movement and authentic technique from years past. If you need a "reason" to engage in this program, consider the following: Swordfighting courses like these have been analyzed scientifically for calorie-burning per hour. The results have shown that practicioners of high-energy swordfighting classes burn 400 to 500 calories per hour! That's MORE than cycling or swimming! Moreover, it really IS plain fun. You don't think about the 'workout' aspect of this because you become fully engaged in the challenge of the activity.

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