Hardest Black Belt to achieve
Updated: Sep 8
We thought that a visual speed-run of all the levels covered during our Belt Gradings at Martial Journey could give a great overview of what we cover within our style of martial arts.
In reality, we believe our Black Belt levels are among some of the hardest to achieve. Although Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is commonly recognized for being difficult to master, striking and stand-up techniques are not typically taught within that style. Taekwondo, Karate, and Kickboxing are strong in striking techniques but grappling, takedowns, and throws are not generally covered.
In Issei Ryu Bujutsu, we cover all of the above including weapons, which is why the learning process takes longer. The aim was never to compete against other styles such as BJJ or Taekwondo, but rather to know enough of everything to give ourselves the best chance of escaping a real-life threat.
The caliber of our students is a measure of our success. They make us proud; not just through their achievements on the mat, but through how they treat each other, and how they carry themselves in their daily lives.
To us, being a martial artist means being the best version of ourselves. We teach all of these techniques with the hope that our students will never need to use them. However, if they ever do, the muscle memory is there.
What we hope they practise every day is giving their best effort, developing their self-belief, and being a good, kind person.
