Much like those classic all-ages toy commercials, goal-setting benefits those aged 1 to 101. Although the goals and the process of achieving them vary with age, the core benefit is the same. Goals are a way of holding one accountable, determining what one wants in life, and keeping one on track.

Life elements like school, work, sports, hobbies, and age are natural factors that assume a lot of one’s realm of goal-setting. However, some have more of an impact than others, such as a goal-based program like karate. Here we break down the difference of achieving goals through karate and how it stems from the black belt grading system and fitness.

Achieving Goals Through Karate’s Black Belt System

Unlike other extracurriculars, the basis of karate truly is built on the premise of achieving the ‘next goal’. Typically, this refers to its black belt grading system. One’s belt color is a reflection of their rank in karate. The order of which is:

• White > yellow > orange > green > blue > brown > black > and then the proceeding different levels of the black belt.

As one becomes more proficient in the art of karate, masters new skills, and meets certain set goals, they are rewarded with a new belt color. The ultimate goal, of course, being that of the black belt. So, from day one in the dojo, students are influenced by the magic that is goal-setting so that they can achieve this ultimate goal. Since embedded so deeply on one end, students also tend to carry this longing for goal-setting into other parts of their life whether personally, in the workplace, or at school. You can learn more about the history of the black belt here.

Achieving Goals Through Fitness

Pairing quite nicely with black belt goal-setting comes fitness! As karate is fitness-based, achieving certain levels of this is imperative for one to move up in their belt rank. This can work in ways such as:

• Working towards a certain number of reps in a specific exercise.
• Achieving a specific goal body weight.
• Completing a workout routine under a set amount of time.

The Difference of Achieving Goals Through Karate

The concept of goal-setting to many can feel daunting, unattainable, and discouraging. This is because oftentimes, you are working towards this all on your own. 

With karate, the concept is very different…in all the best ways. In the dojo, students work alongside like-minded peers each and every day.. All of which, are working towards achieving the same type of goals. Some may be ahead, and some may be behind, but the overall ‘ultimate goal’ is the same. The benefit of this is that it creates a unique environment in which they are able to relate to one another, lend assistance, and help each other along the way.

In addition to goal-setting, karate also sheds much attention on traits like respect, humility, and service. Being that in yourself, and to all of those around you. This too adds an additional layer of benefit when it comes to working alongside, and with others, in goal-setting. 

Getting Started With Karate at Douvris Martial Arts

Since 1984, Douvris Martial Arts has been offering karate programs to those of all ages. Led by specially trained and award-winning senseis, we have welcomed thousands of students into our dojos over the years. The uniqueness of our programs is that we offer classes for all different age groups.

• ​​Tykes Karate for children ages 4 to 6.
• Kids Karate for children ages 7 to 12.
• Youth Karate for teens ages 13 to 18.
• Adult Karate for those 18 years and older.

You can get a feel for our karate classes with no commitment required through our trial offers.

Please note this article is based on our own thoughts and has not been formally approved by a healthcare or fitness professional.