1. Make students aware of your black belt curriculum so they’ll be excited to participate. If you don’t have a full curriculum for black belts, you’re ensuring they’ll want to quit; remember, it’s much easier to keep a student than it is to enroll a new one. The curriculum should be exciting, challenging, and take your black belts to a new level.
2. Take the time to ask your students what personal goals they would like to achieve between the levels of black belt testing. Many times, children and adults have a vision of what they expect to be doing in their higher level training; help make those visions a reality. Spend time during every class fulfilling their vision of a black belt class.
3. Make your black belts feel special by offering classes and seminars that only they can attend and bring in guest instructors or plan classes that’ll entice them to attend. Add certain weapons training to their curriculum only. Provide numerous opportunities to make them feel honored to be wearing that black belt and keep them wanting to learn more.
4. Make sure instructors are still training and testing. You’re one of your students’ biggest role models. Why should they be motivated or excited to reach higher levels of black belt if you aren’t? Your personal training should be a top priority. Many times, as instructors, we forget the feeling of being a student and reaching to achieve our own goals, which is a contributing factor to burnout and the retention of your higher ranks.
Retaining black belts is a crucial step in helping your school grow and reach its peak. Black belts motivate students and instructors and are often your biggest fans. They’ve been through years of training and growth within the walls of your school, so plan now to keep them your students and make sure you give them.