Josh Earns His 2nd Dan Black Belt – A Grading to Remember

A Day of Dedication – Reflecting on Josh’s 2nd Dan Black Belt Grading

Saturday 19th July 2025 marked a proud and unforgettable milestone for Team EKA, as one of our lead instructors, Josh, successfully completed his 2nd Dan Black Belt grading. It was a day filled with intensity, resilience, and the kind of spirit that defines martial arts at its core.

The grading ran for an incredible 5 hours and 6 minutes – a full-body and mental challenge that pushed Josh to his limits and beyond. From the very first minute, the pace was set high:

Warm-up and stretching set the tone

Line work and two-step partner drills brought technical discipline to the forefront

50 Move KATA Form

Practical self-defence, pad work, and strike shield drills tested power, speed, and accuracy

Fitness tests, sparring, and body conditioning demanded stamina, endurance, and grit

But one of the most memorable segments of the day came in the form of a unique challenge: a 20-minute blindfolded drill. Without the use of sight, Josh was put through a series of spins, freeze attacks, and unpredictable tempo changes designed to disorient and test his reactions. This challenge stripped back all external cues, forcing Josh to rely on instinct, timing, and inner composure – and he did not disappoint. His ability to adapt under pressure and stay calm in chaos was remarkable.

Another standout moment was his 50-piece kata performance – a demanding sequence that demonstrated Josh’s technical precision, memory, balance, and mental focus. Kata at this level is more than just movement; it's about expression, discipline, and flow. Josh's performance was a true showcase of how far he has come in his martial arts journey.

Alongside the physical grading, Josh also completed the teaching assessment required for his 2nd Dan. This involved delivering two structured classes, each lasting 1 hour and 15 minutes, focused on core coaching areas:

A class on pad drills, refining technique, timing, and communication between partners

A session on beginner sparring, with emphasis on control, movement, and confidence-building for less experienced students

These classes highlighted Josh’s leadership and communication skills – not only his ability to perform, but his ability to coach, guide, and inspire others. His calm, clear approach and ability to tailor sessions to individual needs were a credit to his development as both a martial artist and instructor.

And let’s not forget the numbers – Josh’s fitness tracker told its own story by the end of the grading: 3,410 calories burned, 5+ hours of continuous, high-level effort, 1 very well-earned 2nd Dan Black Belt.

The atmosphere throughout the grading was something special. A massive thank you goes to everyone who attended – whether you were there to train, hold pads, spar, or simply cheer Josh on from the side lines, your support played a vital role in keeping the energy high and the motivation strong.

Josh has been an integral part of the Elemental Kickboxing Leeds community for a few years – not just as a skilled martial artist, but as an inspiring instructor, a role model for younger students, and a driving force in Team EKA’s growth. This achievement is a reflection of his hard work, his consistency, and his passion for the art.

From all of us at EKA – congratulations, Josh. You’ve earned this moment, and we’re all incredibly proud of you.

Here’s to the next chapter in your journey.

Watch the highlights from Josh’s grading here [https://www.facebook.com/EKA.Leeds}