Today I am going to test for my second belt in Taekwondo. At my school, the belts go like this:

White, Yellow, Orange, Green, Purple, Blue, Brown, Red, Red-Black, Black

In between each new belt color is a senior belt or stripe belt. Right now I am a yellow belt and I am testing today for my yellow stripe belt.

My test will include a demonstration of physical skills (jump rope, push-ups, stamina), technical skills (punches, kicks, blocks, board-breaking, and forms), sparring skills, and an interview.

In addition to reciting the names and birthdays of each of my parents and grandparents, I will be asked the following questions during the interview:

1. Can you count to ten in Korean?

Hana, Dool, Set, Net, Tasut, Yosut, Illgop, Yodohl, Ahope, Yohol

2. Can you explain what makes power?

Power is made by weight and speed together with relaxation, concentration and confidence, Sir!

3. What does Taekwondo mean?

Tae: Foot for kick or stomp

Kwon: Hand for punch or block

Do: Way of life or philosophy

At my last belt test (my first), I had no idea what to expect and I was underprepared for the interview process. I had a really hard time and even though I barely passed that portion, I didn’t feel too good about the experience. This time, I practiced everything over and over and I feel great about today’s test. I can’t wait!