Striving For Black Belt Greatness at Excel Taekwondo Academy

Striving For Black Belt Excellence

In the world of martial arts, a black belt signifies an elite level of skill and discipline. For students at Excel Academy Taekwondo in Texas, getting that black belt is the ultimate goal - embodying years of perseverance, blood, sweat and tears on the training mats. Under the guidance of talented instructors like Michael "Machine Gun" Davidson, Excel Academy's students are instilled not just with fighting techniques, but with the life lessons that martial arts imparts.

The Journey Begins

The road to black belt excellence starts early at Excel Academy. Kids as young as three years old are welcomed into the Tiger Tots program, where they learn basic moves and the tenets of respect and discipline. From there, they progress through the color belt ranks, mastering new techniques and life skills at each level. The early belts like white, yellow and green teach the fundamentals - the blocks, strikes and stances that form the foundation of powerful fighting styles like Taekwondo.

Developing True Masters

But it's not just punching and kicking. True martial arts mastery encompasses mental strength as well. Concepts like courtesy, integrity and self-control are woven into the fabric of each class. Students quickly learn that the lessons of the dojang carry over off the mats, helping them achieve confidence and focus in school, sports or life. This holistic approach lays the groundwork for mature black belts that are prepared to give back to their communities.

At the blue and red belt level, movements become more complex and combinations more intricate. Sparring is introduced, along with advanced kicking and falling techniques. Students develop fluidity, precision and situational awareness. By now, many years have been invested and black belt is feeling attainable. Testing for new ranks requires demonstrations of forms, board breaking and skills - to panels of black belts, no less. The pressure builds mental toughness.

Earning A Coveted Black Belt

Finally, after 6-8 years on average, black belt is bestowed. An incredible achievement that only a fraction will reach. Now these Excel students truly carry themselves like martial artists - confident, disciplined and proud. They give back too, assisting as junior instructors for youngsters following in their footsteps. Their black belt journey has come full circle, the never-ending pursuit of self-improvement continues. Just because they earned a black belt does not mean the learning stops. To retain the color that few possess, black belts must register every year with new techniques and curriculum to conquer. For dedicated students like Michael Davidson, the work only gets harder from here. But the lifelong benefits will be worth the sweat and sacrifice.

Instructor Spotlight: Michael "Machine Gun" Davidson

Michael Davidson, known by his students as "Machine Gun", is one of Excel Academy's most popular black belt instructors. A Taekwondo practitioner for over 20 years, Michael has developed a reputation for his quick, high-energy and explosive techniques. It's like his kicks and punches move as fast as a machine gun - hence the nickname.

Leading By Example

But Machine Gun does more than just talk the talk. As a 5th degree black belt in the style of Songahm Taekwondo, Michael walks the walk every time he steps on the mats. His passion for martial arts is evident through his meticulous attention to detail when teaching class. Whether he's explaining the nuances of a new kick or encouraging students during sparring, Michael leads by example. Every punch, block and stance is performed to textbook precision.

A True Student

What's incredible is that even after 20 years and a master rank, Michael is still intensely devoted to improving his own martial arts abilities. He continues to learn under Senior Master Ricky Todd, Excel Academy's owner and his original instructor when he first started at 13 years old. The sign of a true lifelong student - Michael knows that the learning never stops, even after black belt. That humility and perseverance trickles down to every child under his tutelage. They know that if a master like Machine Gun keeps honing his craft, they should too.

Expect Excellence. Achieve Excellence.

Excel Academy Taekwondo breeds excellence at every level. The standards are set high by Master Instructors who walk the walk themselves. Students rise to meet those expectations, pushing through challenges physical and mental to ultimately achieve black belt excellence. Led by passionate martial artists like Michael Davidson who lead by humble example, the next generation of black belts is in good hands. They'll carry the lessons of respect, discipline and perseverance learned in Excel's dojangs with them for life, striving for black belt greatness in all they pursue.

FAQs

How long does it take to earn a black belt?

At Excel Academy Taekwondo, it takes an average of 6-8 years for students to progress through the color belt ranks and test for their coveted black belt.

What style of martial arts is taught?

Excel Academy teaches the style of Songahm Taekwondo to all its students from beginner to black belt.

At what age can my child start martial arts?

Excel Academy's Tiger Tots program allows kids as young as 3 years old to begin foundational martial arts training.

What makes Excel Academy's instructors special?

Instructors like Master Michael Davidson set Excel Academy apart through their decades of experience, passion for teaching, and commitment to continuous self-improvement.