5 Important Things to Remember for Grad

Graduation Day at First Choice Martial Arts – 5 Tips to Stand Out at the December Grad.

On Saturday, December 13th, First Choice Martial Arts students will take part in our  84th Graduation, and we couldn’t be more excited to see their performances.

With that in mind, here are five important tips that can help you stand out and do your very best when it’s time to perform:

1. Be prepared
Know your graduation time and have your full uniform pressed and ready to go. Make sure your top and pants are clean, your belt is packed, and if your hair needs to be tied back, bring an elastic so nothing distracts you during your performance.

2. Practice — mentally and physically
With graduation coming up soon, there is still plenty of time to run through your routines. Visualize your moves, go over your transitions, and rehearse in your mind. This mental preparation gives you an edge and helps calm pre-performance nerves.

3. Show respect and consideration
Respect is at the heart of being a martial artist. Show your kindness and discipline through your actions and behaviour. Even while seated, watch your classmates perform and demonstrate that First Choice Martial Arts students are supportive, focused, and respectful at all times. Developing a Black Belt Mindset doesn’t happen only on the mat — it happens in every moment.

4. Show self-control
When you hit a pose, hold it with confidence and stillness. Don’t fidget, sway, or look away. Strong stances and controlled techniques make all the difference between a good performance and a great one. You practice this in every class — now is the time to execute it.

5. Show confidence and intensity
Perform with power, precision, and strong intensity. Loud, confident kiais, sharp techniques, and synchronized movements can energize the crowd and turn your performance into a memorable moment.

We hope you feel excited and ready for graduation. Remember to take photos, have fun, and enjoy another important step on your journey toward becoming a Black Belt. December 13th is your time to shine, and there is no better moment to bring your A-game.

And always remember: behind every great performance are countless hours of practice, dedication, and preparation.

See you on the mat,
Sensei Chris