On Sunday, February 21st, five incredibly talented and dedicated students tested for and received their km-X black belts. The test lasted for a grueling three and a half hours. During that time the kids only had four two minute rest periods and had to perform nearly every technique they have ever learned under intense stress and fatigue.

The new black belts had to endure quite a bit to even become eligible for this test. In addition to training 3+ times per week for nearly four years, all of the kids had to complete a rigorous black belt preparation course that consumed many of their Sunday afternoons for the past five months.

Since we started the km-X youth self defense program in 2005, we have had the privilege of teaching self defense to nearly 1000 kids; however, we have only awarded the km-X black belt a total of 12 times. To say the least, this is a very special honor that is not easily obtained. All of us at KMW would like to congratulate these amazing kids on their incredible efforts and achievements.