Great job Sir! I’m 48 and just tested for my 4 Dan. It can be done!! At any age! And I continue to compete when ever I can!! I have followed you for some time! Keep it strong and prosperous.🥋🥋🥋🥋👍
I am a 1st dan and completely appreciate the vlogs they are inspiring. The discussion you did a while ago about black belt fatigue has really hit home because once I received my 1st dan after about 6 months I hit that. I am now getting back in full force almost 100% because of that video. I seriously thought my love for tae kwon do had left me but hearing that it is something others go through really helped put things into perspective and to try and figure out what I want to do with my martial arts journey,
Glad you're loving the vlogs! They are my favorite to make and yes I remember that video very much because I was just coming out of feeling the same way. It means a lot that it could have such an impact and I really appreciate the support of what I do :)
Thank you for inspiring my daughter every day! She talks about you all the time. She is halfway to 3rd degree, and will be going into the Air Force after high school (she's a junior). We love watching you!
Congratulations! I've watched your channel for quite a few years and never commented, but when I realized that we tested on the same day last week (I for 3rd dan), I thought that was so amazing! Thank you so much for your contributions to the martial arts community and to my personal training! You are truly amazing.
Congratulations Donovan!! What a great honor to reach 5th DAN. I just loved to watch you preform everything they requested to, even with the injury and discomfort. It's wonderful to listen you talk about what taekwondo has been for you, what it means and the way you want to take it, it's really inspiring. I've been following your content for a while and it's really nice to see how you are growing, as martial artist and human being. Keep going forward, keep doing what you love ❤️ Not even an injury or a world pandemic situation can stop you, you have already proved it, you can do anything you want 🙌🏼 Congratulations from Mexico!!
Well done Donavan. I feel your pain, I pulled my hamstring at the very start of my 2nd Dan test. My grandmaster asked me to bow out and try again in 6 months. I told him I was ok, and pushed through the pain. Took almost 2 years to get over that injury, I kept injuring it. My right leg has never been the same. Take care of that leg.
Ahhh sorry to hear that! I'm getting much better. I used my foam roller last night and did a light stretch and waking up today, it helped SOOO much. But yeah...I wasn't leaving the mat until I got my belt haha
Congratulations to your 5th DAN grade. - I myself solved my 1st DAN in Taekwondo in the age of 61 in the beginning of that year 2023. Greetings from Denmark! 🇩🇰
I've just started Goja-ru Karate within the last couple of months too....... Wish you all the best on your journey! Also congratulations Donavan on your 5th Dan!
Oh my god! You're only 24?! My 27th birthday is coming and I'm still a blue belt! You probably started taekwondo veeeery early, I kinda envy you for that. =P (No negative emotions, relax)
I started when I was 7 and hey...the most important thing is that you started! I've taught many people who started in their 50s and 60s so...you're still way early :)
@@arnonabuurs7297 It takes 3 years to get a black belt, but it takes another 16 years or so to get to 5th... I'm not sure what the point is you're trying to make
@@SteadyRiot 3 years?? It took me almost 4 years to get my 1st dan, and I was training, in class, the first 2 years 4-7 times a week! But that was in the mid 90s and taekwondo has certainly changed over the years.
Hi Donavan, I want to thank you so much for taking the time to put this video together. Your were awesome and actually I had tears in my eyes when you received your belt. All those years of dedication and love of the sport. You inspire me so much to be my best and don’t even let my age get in the way. By the way I love your T-shirt. is this on your merchandise store. Stay safe and I hope your two injuries will get better soon. Congratulations again!
Awww you are so sweet! Thank you for watching and yes, that is from my merch store. You can head over to my youtube channel and click on the "Store" if you were interested in grabbing one. Thank you for your constant support and love for what I do. It means the world
Bravo young man!!! Excellent techniques displayed here. I earned a 4th degree in Tang Soo Do many years ago - but I bow to your superior skills!!! And thanks for posting this test vid. You should be very proud indeed.
Congratulations! On October 5, 2019 I tested for my first Dan in Baekwoon Mu Sul Karate (like a sub style of Shorei Ryu) and Kukiwon Taekwondo in the same test. It lasted 4 hours and I threw up 3 times. A year later, on August 14, 2020 I tested for my first Dan in Shorei-Ryu Karate at Sharkey's Karate Studio. I feel your pain because we started training for the test in November of 2019 and 2 weeks before my test I fractured my foot in 3 places. The test was 6.5 hours long and had to be semi shorted in some areas so we wouldn't go for longer. In total we got about 4 breaks each lasting 3-4 minutes each. I literally had to be picked and dragged by my arms at one point because of the exhaustion and pain coursing through my body. But me and my other testers pushed through and made it. I couldn't have done it without their encouragement and support. So, I'm really happy that this community can offer you the same as well. Amazing job
Congrats on receiving your 5th dan, especially during these times !!! It was inspiring to see that you worked hard to receive your 5th dan and you never quit !
Hi, from Germany. I am a white belt with 50y. I started to train together with my kids. Congratulations for this rank. You deserve it and many others. With your values and your attitude you are a very good example and teacher for us.
A huge congrats Master! You are uspiromg me to push myself, I’m a white belt, 39 years old; not very flexabile and legally blind, but I’m loving Taekwondo! Last night was a lesson in pain, hips were sore, knees were sore, but I kept throwing kicks. I don’t know if I have what it takes to ever reach 1st Dan, but in going to give it my all. Thank you, for inspiring me to find a new purpose in life.
Great effort and well done. I got my 3rdDan at the age of 41 and now my age is 66. Still practising and doing a lot of running uphill. Happy to be fit. God bless you.
TKD is different, ranks go quicker and given his technique maybe too quick (sorry didn't mean to dis you , but this wouldn't have cut it at most 5th dan tests) But, JKA does not have age limits that I'm aware of. I agree they should and 40 seems about right, but I dont think they do. It's probably because of the business competition, same reason we are all over title in the USA. Sensei is the only one you need , but everyone wants to use something more. So you can say, why train with him, he's only a Sensei, not even a master , while I'm a Red Dragon Master of the 4th wind.
@@anthonybenevides3628 jka has age limits on dan ranks but not kyu grades. I feel that this is part of the problem with karate. See originally karate was not intended for children u had to be at least 16 to start so when they started teaching young kids they never added more belts or devised a kids curriculum, they taught them the same stuff so if u started when u were 16 u probably weren't getting a black belt til 19-20 so if your 6 they expect a black belt at 12
Wow I have been watching you kick for a couple years now and you look like your in pain during those kicks. Well done! I tested for my first dan a few months after ankle surgery and my second Dan shortly after a hernia surgery so I feel you in your pain. Push through. Indomitable Spirit! Awsome! Congrats!
I am 55 years old currently Brown belt in Taekwondo, would have tested for black belt in September, but because of the pandemic haven't attended any class since March so I did not test, very disappointed. I may have to relearn a lot of the skills that I have lost for not attending class or train for 7 months. I was really looking forward to testing for my black belt.
Congratulations Donavan on your WTF TKD 5th Dan test. Currently I am 65 years old. On 12/07/2017 I tested for my 8th Dan WTF TKD under the wing of 9th Dan GM K.C. Chung in Coral Springs, FL. You did a great job in your test despite the injury and the short preparation time, even though we must be ready at any moment. To become a 5th Dan at your age (24) you should have started when you were 9 or 10 years old. The sparring part I guess was missing due to the COVID-19, but the rest of the test was real good. I encourage all of my students to keep in mind that Forms are a resemblance of a real combat, but with a little notch less of speed (no slow motion) to show every aspect of the moves and stances of them all, specially with all type of kicks. Take a good care of your back injury before retaking serious training. By the way, before my latest test I watched one of your stretching techniques videos which helped me to regain full flexibility to my legs.
Hi Mr.Donavan, Call me Young Joon-Lee .I am 8th Dan in ITF Taekwondo and also get my Karate, Kung fu, Aikido, and hapkido Black Belts Last year. My younger sister shows me this video and I am so impressed with your great job. As a martial artist Injury is Simple and to have a cure .be healthy Man! I am 30 already and Can not start my Last degree practises Because of my injured back. When you feel pain be serious about it, recover it quickly, that helps you to become more Comfortable I do not have to advise you but in Past years When I feel the pain I did not pay much attention and it became so Horrible. Be healthy and Complete this Mission Successfully! God Bless You! young Man.
Great job!! I got my 5th two years ago at 58, my fault as I stop and go for many years and did other arts, but TKD remains my first love, been doing it since 1971 have my 5th in both ITF and WT, keep it up and fun.
Congratulations Donavan. I've followed your videos and journey for a while here on youtube, always inspiring, and definitely a catalyst for inspiration during these covid-times. I'm 44, and trying to go for my brown belt in kickboxing (freestyle TKD) next (if it's possible in this climate), so thank you and congratulations on your achievement!
Congrats DONAVAN YOU ARE an inspiration and you have great technique. I have a 5th in Tae Kwon do, a 2nd in Shotokan with background in American Kenpo, Israeli IDF, and Chin na, would love to see you expand to include other martial arts. You have a lot to share
I am 1st Dan in USA hapkido/ Jin Pal Hapkido and I just recently got my black belt in October 3 and I'm honestly surprised I made it to black belt at eleven because at my place mostly teens test for black belt. And congrats on getting your 5th Dan you deserve it and I'm so happy for you
Congratulations 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉. You did a great job in practicing so diligently and enduring the pain. You managed to motivate me even more to be driven towards higher heights when it comes to teakwondo.💪💪💪🦵🦵 stay strong and I hope you'll recover soon.
CONGRATS! I’m a student in Tang Soo Do Karate 🥋. I just earned my Green Belt. That’s almost halfway to my black belt. Soo Proud of the journey I started July 2nd 2019 to now. Starting martial arts is the best decision I have made!
Congrats, sir! I recent tested for my 3rd degree in Chinese Goju Karate Do, my entire (physical) examination, I had to wear a mask. Out of all the things they made me do, that was the WORST!! Once again Donovan, congrats, wear it proudly my brother!
In the 30 years of being a member of the WTF and USTU and am very knowledgeable in the Arts have never heard the Term Dan pronounced Don. Congrats on the promotion.
Well done. Good to see a grading from another school. It’s interesting as my school has pretty much all of what you’ve done there, but we have to spar too. I had to spar 10 three minute rounds against different partners and then two rounds of two-against-one sparring to earn my 3rd dan. Two-against-one is bonkers especially when you’ve already done 10 rounds before! Our breaking is against plastic boards that are harder to break than wood because you have to completely accurate with where you strike, so I’d love the opportunity to break wood like you have. Never heard of the knife poomsae or the tea ceremony! Great and inspirational answers for your theory, so again, well done and congratulations.
Congratulations! I'm supposed to go for 3rd in February and I don't feel ready physically, mentally I am but physically I'm so out of shape 😭 I've been doing TKD since I was 10 so 19 years now it's def long over due CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN!
I retired with a dark blue belt in TKD. I was able to do the board breaking (kyokpa) without problems, and my poomsaes in my past belt tests were pretty good. As for you......The "knife thing" - is probably inspired by the art of "koppojutsu" - the art of close-in knife fighting, from the ninja arts (which is from Japan, not Korea). As you probably know, as a "yadinha" (black belt), there is a variation of taekwondo called taekeon, which focuses its manners on feet and legs like regular taekwondo, but with bigger lunges and bigger stretches, and with lesser use of jumps than regular taekwondo. The fluidity and flow of taekeon is a little bit like the movements of another martial art known as Silat. You should try this taekwondo variation soon.
Congrats sir Donavan !!!!🎉🎉🎉Ive talk to my master about what is which ,if its to late or not and he said to me it never to later if its become to your age or rank, so i say thats it of to my black belt.🤗 Happy for you sir and god bless -Green Belt
Congratulations and well done Mr Barrett I have watched your videos for a while. It was interesting to see what you had to do and how gradings are carried out in the covid days. Look after your body and you can still do taekwondo when you get as old as me.
I just promoted to 5th Dan in Kang Duk Won Karate. It was my lifelong goal. I am also a 3rd Dan from Tracy's Kenpo Karate. Four 10th Dans signed my Tracy's certificate including the Great Grandmaster and originator of the system. I haven't received the 5th Dan certificate yet. It took most of a lifetime to get here.
Donavan, congrats!! ☺️ Would you be able to do a video in the future on little things to keep an eye out for in forms? I’ve been working on Koryo, can’t afford to go back to classes right now (and COVID is a thing) so I’m trying to put time into perfecting it on my own. Just a little lost on things to look out for, like how to transition between positions, finding rhythm, and how to keep the shoulders? Like what’s most important to keep in mind with forms?
Congratulations! 🎈 That’s incredible... RESPECT ✊ PLEASE STAY SAFE! you have your whole life ahead of you to advance to higher levels and explore complimentary styles. You may even decide to develop your own style.... Godspeed 👍
Got his 5th dan with no sparring, no self defence, no weapon defence, no two on one sparring, no line work combos, no power breaking other than kicking a thin little balsa wood board. 💪
The breaking board at 0:15 is the dumbest place to have broken..(not your fault I hasten to add) but the broken board flew straight at the grading panel, could have been very nasty
Great job, and congrats. I get it though. I train in ITF Taekwondo. I'm a high brown belt, and still have much to learn. One of my instructors is only 24 and she's a 5th Dan. It's a black belt family. The owner is 8th Dan. One daughter is 24 and 5th, one is 18 and 3rd, one is 16 and 2nd, the wife is 1st Dan, going for 2nd next month, and the son is 21 and 4th Dan.
@@brankoristic6901 lol I guess. It's a family business, yes. The owner opened his own dojo in 1984, and like most, has gotten married and had a large family, all of which started training as soon as they were old enough, out of love and interest of the art. It's not uncommon for families who train together, to grow in rank together.
Thanks! It's actually my design and if you'd like, you can grab one by heading to my channel and clicking the "Store" tab. I'm glad you enjoyed the video and I appreciate the support of my content :)
Brown belt, going for my red in April. I discovered this channel when I got back into Taekwondo 3 years ago. We're the same age haha. I was a green when I quit
Hi!! Congratulation... You are Amazing ... Wow Excellence you deserved it, i have a two kids they both alao learning Taekwondo. My daughter was red and black belt and my Son has blue belt. I wish my both kids also like you should come. Thank you so much for sharing this video i definitely show to my kids, and all the very best again for your future your Mission. 👍👍
Congrats Donovan! Good video, love watching these vlogs, inspires me a lot. I'm looking forward to seeing how a 5th Dan TKD guy does in Wushu, I hope you find a teacher soon! It may help to look for Shaolin Kung Fu masters, they sometimes teach modern Wushu.
Thank you love! If you want one, you can head to my UA-cam channel and click on the store tab. Thank you for always showing love and support for what I do
Congratulations 🎉 you're one of the most inspiring people I know of. I'd love to see applications from the WT Poomsae if you have any plans on doing that? I'm a 1st Dan in ITF style Taekwondo (but not affiliated with the ITF). I unofficially train TKD still, but now officially train in Okinawan Goju Ryu karate. Currently a green belt 6th kyu/kup - half way along the journey to Shodan. Would also be interesting to see your take on Okinawan karate styles, rather than mainland Japanese ones. Goju Ryu karate for example draws history from White crane Kung Fu (feeding crane mostly).
Hey Donavan! I do taekwondo and have noticed that skin is coming off on the bottom of my big toe (in the middle) Are there any tips on how to protect and prevent that injury? Also keep up the great work!! 😊
This isn't meant as a dig, but an honest question. Being a role model, I was wondering whether it might be possible to forgo the one-time-use plastic cups for your ice coffee? Does the cafe accept re-usable mugs that customers bring themselves?
Reply with your belt rank!
1st Dan :)
1st Dan
4th dan shorin-ryu karate under Hanshi Larry Tankson 😁
2nd going for 3rd in February!
red but I definitely won't stop there ;)
Great job Sir! I’m 48 and just tested for my 4 Dan. It can be done!! At any age! And I continue to compete when ever I can!! I have followed you for some time! Keep it strong and prosperous.🥋🥋🥋🥋👍
I am a 1st dan and completely appreciate the vlogs they are inspiring. The discussion you did a while ago about black belt fatigue has really hit home because once I received my 1st dan after about 6 months I hit that. I am now getting back in full force almost 100% because of that video. I seriously thought my love for tae kwon do had left me but hearing that it is something others go through really helped put things into perspective and to try and figure out what I want to do with my martial arts journey,
Glad you're loving the vlogs! They are my favorite to make and yes I remember that video very much because I was just coming out of feeling the same way. It means a lot that it could have such an impact and I really appreciate the support of what I do :)
Thank you for inspiring my daughter every day! She talks about you all the time. She is halfway to 3rd degree, and will be going into the Air Force after high school (she's a junior).
We love watching you!
Congratulations! I've watched your channel for quite a few years and never commented, but when I realized that we tested on the same day last week (I for 3rd dan), I thought that was so amazing! Thank you so much for your contributions to the martial arts community and to my personal training! You are truly amazing.
Congratulations Donovan. Well done, You´re a great inspiration. I´m 54 year old, and became 1Dan Karate when I was 52 year old.
Congratulations Donovan!! What a great honor to reach 5th DAN. I just loved to watch you preform everything they requested to, even with the injury and discomfort.
It's wonderful to listen you talk about what taekwondo has been for you, what it means and the way you want to take it, it's really inspiring. I've been following your content for a while and it's really nice to see how you are growing, as martial artist and human being.
Keep going forward, keep doing what you love ❤️ Not even an injury or a world pandemic situation can stop you, you have already proved it, you can do anything you want 🙌🏼
Congratulations from Mexico!!
Congrats Donavan! 😊 Awesome video!
Thank you Alex! I need to make a trip to Atlanta soon to hang out again :)
Well done Donavan. I feel your pain, I pulled my hamstring at the very start of my 2nd Dan test. My grandmaster asked me to bow out and try again in 6 months. I told him I was ok, and pushed through the pain. Took almost 2 years to get over that injury, I kept injuring it. My right leg has never been the same. Take care of that leg.
Ahhh sorry to hear that! I'm getting much better. I used my foam roller last night and did a light stretch and waking up today, it helped SOOO much. But yeah...I wasn't leaving the mat until I got my belt haha
I turned 28 this week, and got my orange belt last week. I love your channel! Your tutorials on kicks and stretches have been very helpful.
Congratulations to your 5th DAN grade. - I myself solved my 1st DAN in Taekwondo in the age of 61 in the beginning of that year 2023. Greetings from Denmark! 🇩🇰
I’m a white belt😭I just started a week ago and bout to go to class now. Your videos have been super helpful with stretching
Hey congrats for getting started on you journey and thank you for taking time to watch my content
But you know what they say... The hardest belt is the white belt. You took the step to start TaeKwonDo and that takes something extra ❤️
I've just started Goja-ru Karate within the last couple of months too....... Wish you all the best on your journey!
Also congratulations Donavan on your 5th Dan!
I did TKD 25 years, do BJJ instead ;), its not too late
Oh my god! You're only 24?! My 27th birthday is coming and I'm still a blue belt! You probably started taekwondo veeeery early, I kinda envy you for that. =P (No negative emotions, relax)
I started when I was 7 and hey...the most important thing is that you started! I've taught many people who started in their 50s and 60s so...you're still way early :)
TKD black belts mean shit, 15 year olds carry them
@@arnonabuurs7297 It takes 3 years to get a black belt, but it takes another 16 years or so to get to 5th... I'm not sure what the point is you're trying to make
@@SteadyRiot
3 years?? It took me almost 4 years to get my 1st dan, and I was training, in class, the first 2 years 4-7 times a week! But that was in the mid 90s and taekwondo has certainly changed over the years.
Hi Donavan, I want to thank you so much for taking the time to put this video together. Your were awesome and actually I had tears in my eyes when you received your belt. All those years of dedication and love of the sport. You inspire me so much to be my best and don’t even let my age get in the way. By the way I love your T-shirt. is this on your merchandise store. Stay safe and I hope your two injuries will get better soon. Congratulations again!
Awww you are so sweet! Thank you for watching and yes, that is from my merch store. You can head over to my youtube channel and click on the "Store" if you were interested in grabbing one. Thank you for your constant support and love for what I do. It means the world
Bravo young man!!! Excellent techniques displayed here. I earned a 4th degree in Tang Soo Do many years ago - but I bow to your superior skills!!! And thanks for posting this test vid. You should be very proud indeed.
I get mines soon. I have to go thru ITFs, WTFs, palgwes, one-step sparring 1-20, kicking combos 1-40, breaking unknown.
Wishing you the best of luck!
@@donavantkd The real challenge is doing the stuff with limited of space
Congratulations on your 5th Dan Master Rank! You are truly a very humble and talented martial artist, that last wood kick was just BOOM ❤️
Congratulations! On October 5, 2019 I tested for my first Dan in Baekwoon Mu Sul Karate (like a sub style of Shorei Ryu) and Kukiwon Taekwondo in the same test. It lasted 4 hours and I threw up 3 times.
A year later, on August 14, 2020 I tested for my first Dan in Shorei-Ryu Karate at Sharkey's Karate Studio. I feel your pain because we started training for the test in November of 2019 and 2 weeks before my test I fractured my foot in 3 places. The test was 6.5 hours long and had to be semi shorted in some areas so we wouldn't go for longer. In total we got about 4 breaks each lasting 3-4 minutes each. I literally had to be picked and dragged by my arms at one point because of the exhaustion and pain coursing through my body. But me and my other testers pushed through and made it. I couldn't have done it without their encouragement and support. So, I'm really happy that this community can offer you the same as well. Amazing job
That perseverance will take you far! Thank you for the kind words and support :)
wow! Good for you. Congratulations! Thanks for sharing this, it was great to see. 3rd Dan
This is 5th dan coffee, what a flex
😭😭 i'm dramatic
@@donavantkd senpai noticed me
Congrats on receiving your 5th dan, especially during these times !!! It was inspiring to see that you worked hard to receive your 5th dan and you never quit !
Fantastic! So happy for you. Omg! I cannot imagine the excruciating back pain and leg pain you had to endure during your test.
Hi, from Germany. I am a white belt with 50y. I started to train together with my kids. Congratulations for this rank. You deserve it and many others. With your values and your attitude you are a very good example and teacher for us.
A huge congrats Master! You are uspiromg me to push myself, I’m a white belt, 39 years old; not very flexabile and legally blind, but I’m loving Taekwondo! Last night was a lesson in pain, hips were sore, knees were sore, but I kept throwing kicks. I don’t know if I have what it takes to ever reach 1st Dan, but in going to give it my all. Thank you, for inspiring me to find a new purpose in life.
@John Ellis I certainly will!
Great effort and well done. I got my 3rdDan at the age of 41 and now my age is 66. Still practising and doing a lot of running uphill. Happy to be fit. God bless you.
Congrats! From now on i going to start calling you Master Donavan in every video
Im a 2nd dan in shotokan. In traditional karate ud have to be at least 40years old to receive a 5th dan
TKD is different, ranks go quicker and given his technique maybe too quick (sorry didn't mean to dis you , but this wouldn't have cut it at most 5th dan tests) But, JKA does not have age limits that I'm aware of. I agree they should and 40 seems about right, but I dont think they do. It's probably because of the business competition, same reason we are all over title in the USA. Sensei is the only one you need , but everyone wants to use something more. So you can say, why train with him, he's only a Sensei, not even a master , while I'm a Red Dragon Master of the 4th wind.
Atleast for me I you need to be 25 years old to get a 5th dan bealt
@@HELLOOOOOOO00 yea thats pretty young in traditional karate
@@anthonybenevides3628 jka has age limits on dan ranks but not kyu grades. I feel that this is part of the problem with karate. See originally karate was not intended for children u had to be at least 16 to start so when they started teaching young kids they never added more belts or devised a kids curriculum, they taught them the same stuff so if u started when u were 16 u probably weren't getting a black belt til 19-20 so if your 6 they expect a black belt at 12
It's an embarrassment to martial arts
Wow I have been watching you kick for a couple years now and you look like your in pain during those kicks. Well done! I tested for my first dan a few months after ankle surgery and my second Dan shortly after a hernia surgery so I feel you in your pain. Push through. Indomitable Spirit! Awsome! Congrats!
soooo much pain hahaha. But we got it done!
Congratulations!!!! wow 5th Dan! That's an archivement specially at your age. Keep on your martial arts journey. :)
Well done and deep respect Sir! I am 39 y/o, 2nd Dan for 15 years Kukkiwon and going for my 4th Dan this August.
I am 55 years old currently Brown belt in Taekwondo, would have tested for black belt in September, but because of the pandemic haven't attended any class since March so I did not test, very disappointed. I may have to relearn a lot of the skills that I have lost for not attending class or train for 7 months. I was really looking forward to testing for my black belt.
theres no brown belt in taekwondo
Congratulations Donavan on your WTF TKD 5th Dan test. Currently I am 65 years old. On 12/07/2017 I tested for my 8th Dan WTF TKD under the wing of 9th Dan GM K.C. Chung in Coral Springs, FL. You did a great job in your test despite the injury and the short preparation time, even though we must be ready at any moment. To become a 5th Dan at your age (24) you should have started when you were 9 or 10 years old. The sparring part I guess was missing due to the COVID-19, but the rest of the test was real good. I encourage all of my students to keep in mind that Forms are a resemblance of a real combat, but with a little notch less of speed (no slow motion) to show every aspect of the moves and stances of them all, specially with all type of kicks. Take a good care of your back injury before retaking serious training. By the way, before my latest test I watched one of your stretching techniques videos which helped me to regain full flexibility to my legs.
your spinning kicks have improved quite a lot since then much more stable! Keep it up!
Hi Mr.Donavan, Call me Young Joon-Lee .I am 8th Dan in ITF Taekwondo and also get my Karate, Kung fu, Aikido, and hapkido Black Belts Last year. My younger sister shows me this video and I am so impressed with your great job. As a martial artist Injury is Simple and to have a cure .be healthy Man!
I am 30 already and Can not start my Last degree practises Because of my injured back.
When you feel pain be serious about it, recover it quickly, that helps you to become more Comfortable
I do not have to advise you but in Past years When I feel the pain I did not pay much attention and it became so Horrible. Be healthy and Complete this Mission Successfully! God Bless You! young Man.
Great job!! I got my 5th two years ago at 58, my fault as I stop and go for many years and did other arts, but TKD remains my first love, been doing it since 1971 have my 5th in both ITF and WT, keep it up and fun.
Congrats on earning your 5th dan! You Rock!
Congratulations Donavan. I've followed your videos and journey for a while here on youtube, always inspiring, and definitely a catalyst for inspiration during these covid-times. I'm 44, and trying to go for my brown belt in kickboxing (freestyle TKD) next (if it's possible in this climate), so thank you and congratulations on your achievement!
Congratulations Fam!!!❤️🥋❤️🥋❤️
Congrats DONAVAN YOU ARE an inspiration and you have great technique. I have a 5th in Tae Kwon do, a 2nd in Shotokan with background in American Kenpo, Israeli IDF, and Chin na, would love to see you expand to include other martial arts. You have a lot to share
I Just tested for my 2nd dan TKD yesterday, congratulations Donavan you did great even with the injuries 💪👍
This was great to watch. Congratulations, sir!
I am 1st Dan in USA hapkido/ Jin Pal Hapkido and I just recently got my black belt in October 3 and I'm honestly surprised I made it to black belt at eleven because at my place mostly teens test for black belt. And congrats on getting your 5th Dan you deserve it and I'm so happy for you
Congratulations 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉.
You did a great job in practicing so diligently and enduring the pain. You managed to motivate me even more to be driven towards higher heights when it comes to teakwondo.💪💪💪🦵🦵
stay strong and I hope you'll recover soon.
Amazing work as always! Congratulations Donovan
CONGRATS! I’m a student in Tang Soo Do Karate 🥋. I just earned my Green Belt. That’s almost halfway to my black belt. Soo Proud of the journey I started July 2nd 2019 to now. Starting martial arts is the best decision I have made!
Congrats, sir! I recent tested for my 3rd degree in Chinese Goju Karate Do, my entire (physical) examination, I had to wear a mask. Out of all the things they made me do, that was the WORST!! Once again Donovan, congrats, wear it proudly my brother!
Congrats Donovan, may you recover from your injuries and get well soon
Congratulations! You can be proud and you are a beautyful soul Donavan
Congratulations Donavan🥳
Thank you! :)
In the 30 years of being a member of the WTF and USTU and am very knowledgeable in the Arts have never heard the Term Dan pronounced Don. Congrats on the promotion.
Well done. Good to see a grading from another school. It’s interesting as my school has pretty much all of what you’ve done there, but we have to spar too. I had to spar 10 three minute rounds against different partners and then two rounds of two-against-one sparring to earn my 3rd dan. Two-against-one is bonkers especially when you’ve already done 10 rounds before! Our breaking is against plastic boards that are harder to break than wood because you have to completely accurate with where you strike, so I’d love the opportunity to break wood like you have. Never heard of the knife poomsae or the tea ceremony! Great and inspirational answers for your theory, so again, well done and congratulations.
I really enjoyed this and congrats. You should make a vid about ur daily life managing real estate, college, ur students, youtube and all that
i've always wanted to do something like that. can't decide if i should post it here or over on my second channel lol
Congratulations! I'm supposed to go for 3rd in February and I don't feel ready physically, mentally I am but physically I'm so out of shape 😭 I've been doing TKD since I was 10 so 19 years now it's def long over due
CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN!
Congratulations on your major achievement. Beautiful Video! I am proud of you. -Victoria 2nd Dan, KKW
Awesome Donavan congrats .. piece of cake for you broo 😎👍
1st Dan Taekwondo
I retired with a dark blue belt in TKD. I was able to do the board breaking (kyokpa) without problems, and my poomsaes in my past belt tests were pretty good.
As for you......The "knife thing" - is probably inspired by the art of "koppojutsu" - the art of close-in knife fighting, from the ninja arts (which is from Japan, not Korea).
As you probably know, as a "yadinha" (black belt), there is a variation of taekwondo called taekeon, which focuses its manners on feet and legs like regular taekwondo, but with bigger lunges and bigger stretches, and with lesser use of jumps than regular taekwondo. The fluidity and flow of taekeon is a little bit like the movements of another martial art known as Silat. You should try this taekwondo variation soon.
I have had a stroke and I am weak on my right side. You have encouraged me a lot. Thank you
Congrats sir Donavan !!!!🎉🎉🎉Ive talk to my master about what is which ,if its to late or not and he said to me it never to later if its become to your age or rank, so i say thats it of to my black belt.🤗
Happy for you sir and god bless
-Green Belt
Congratulations and well done Mr Barrett I have watched your videos for a while. It was interesting to see what you had to do and how gradings are carried out in the covid days. Look after your body and you can still do taekwondo when you get as old as me.
Congratulations 24 is young for 5th but well deserved my friend, I tested for 5th in moo duk kwan June 27th of this year 😀
Today I begin my journey in Taekwondo. I'm really excited!!
I just promoted to 5th Dan in Kang Duk Won Karate. It was my lifelong goal. I am also a 3rd Dan from Tracy's Kenpo Karate. Four 10th Dans signed my Tracy's certificate including the Great Grandmaster and originator of the system. I haven't received the 5th Dan certificate yet. It took most of a lifetime to get here.
Mate you do a brilliant job for the taekwondo community keep up the good work
Congrats! admirable the way you managed your test with your injuries, it must have been painful but you did it. thanks for your video.
Hi Well done that’s brilliant ;) I got my 1st Dan last month and still over the moonn
Donavan, congrats!! ☺️ Would you be able to do a video in the future on little things to keep an eye out for in forms? I’ve been working on Koryo, can’t afford to go back to classes right now (and COVID is a thing) so I’m trying to put time into perfecting it on my own. Just a little lost on things to look out for, like how to transition between positions, finding rhythm, and how to keep the shoulders? Like what’s most important to keep in mind with forms?
That sounded like a hella ramble of a comment so I apologize for that 😂
WONDERFUL, JUST WONDERFUL AND CONGRATULATIONS YOUNG MAN
Congratulations Sir , truly inspiring 👏 👏👏
Congrats on the achievement - you make it look so easy! Thanks for the inspiration! :-)
Congratulations baby!!!!! Good job working hard!!!!
Congratulations! 🎈 That’s incredible... RESPECT ✊
PLEASE STAY SAFE! you have your whole life ahead of you to advance to higher levels and explore complimentary styles. You may even decide to develop your own style....
Godspeed 👍
Got his 5th dan with no sparring, no self defence, no weapon defence, no two on one sparring, no line work combos, no power breaking other than kicking a thin little balsa wood board. 💪
Congratulations! Tae Kwon & Oshhh! All martial arts are one!
I am red-white in tkd - just getting back from a hiatus and hope to go for my black belt! I’m halfway there
Congratulations! Keep up the great work!
Congratulation Donavan wtg you are awesome.
You're too kind thank you so much!
Congrats, Donavan :) Nice Vlog ! All the best to you from Germany ;)
The breaking board at 0:15 is the dumbest place to have broken..(not your fault I hasten to add) but the broken board flew straight at the grading panel, could have been very nasty
Great job, and congrats. I get it though. I train in ITF Taekwondo. I'm a high brown belt, and still have much to learn. One of my instructors is only 24 and she's a 5th Dan. It's a black belt family. The owner is 8th Dan. One daughter is 24 and 5th, one is 18 and 3rd, one is 16 and 2nd, the wife is 1st Dan, going for 2nd next month, and the son is 21 and 4th Dan.
So you're saying Dan's are a family buisness and they just throw them around.
@@brankoristic6901 lol I guess. It's a family business, yes. The owner opened his own dojo in 1984, and like most, has gotten married and had a large family, all of which started training as soon as they were old enough, out of love and interest of the art. It's not uncommon for families who train together, to grow in rank together.
The way you broke the plate broke my jaw and it dropped..
congratulations on your grading. Awesome shirt BTW!
Thanks! It's actually my design and if you'd like, you can grab one by heading to my channel and clicking the "Store" tab. I'm glad you enjoyed the video and I appreciate the support of my content :)
Congrats Donovan!
I had a similar experience this weekend. I passed my TKD 5th dan after partially dislocating my hip during warm-ups.
Brown belt, going for my red in April. I discovered this channel when I got back into Taekwondo 3 years ago. We're the same age haha. I was a green when I quit
I practice taekwondo for almost 20 years but i stopped to belt tested on 1st dan. Lol!
Congrats 👏!
bro the competition is too quite , i would have died 💀
Congrazz Donavan! 💪🏽🥋🔥
Hi!! Congratulation... You are Amazing ... Wow Excellence you deserved it, i have a two kids they both alao learning Taekwondo. My daughter was red and black belt and my Son has blue belt. I wish my both kids also like you should come. Thank you so much for sharing this video i definitely show to my kids, and all the very best again for your future your Mission. 👍👍
Congrats Donovan! Good video, love watching these vlogs, inspires me a lot.
I'm looking forward to seeing how a 5th Dan TKD guy does in Wushu, I hope you find a teacher soon!
It may help to look for Shaolin Kung Fu masters, they sometimes teach modern Wushu.
Thanks for the tips. At this point, I'm willing to find someone who would do Zoom calls because the schools in my area don't seem to be the best
congratulations beautiful! well deserved. I love your tshirt too.
Thank you love! If you want one, you can head to my UA-cam channel and click on the store tab. Thank you for always showing love and support for what I do
Congrats, I love your shirt! And I wasn't old enough for saki when i did my tea ceremony lmao...
Congratulations 🎉 you're one of the most inspiring people I know of.
I'd love to see applications from the WT Poomsae if you have any plans on doing that?
I'm a 1st Dan in ITF style Taekwondo (but not affiliated with the ITF).
I unofficially train TKD still, but now officially train in Okinawan Goju Ryu karate.
Currently a green belt 6th kyu/kup - half way along the journey to Shodan.
Would also be interesting to see your take on Okinawan karate styles, rather than mainland Japanese ones.
Goju Ryu karate for example draws history from White crane Kung Fu (feeding crane mostly).
Congratulations to you my friend!! Something about these achievements that nothing but years of self-motivated work can earn right?
There's nothing like it :)
hello, is this not an official passage? is it 5th dan in your club? I am 5th dan in France.
Yeah i know i am four months late i have been in school and self training for a while
Great job donavan
Hey Donavan! I do taekwondo and have noticed that skin is coming off on the bottom of my big toe (in the middle) Are there any tips on how to protect and prevent that injury? Also keep up the great work!! 😊
You did amazing it was perfect I just tested for first degree
This isn't meant as a dig, but an honest question. Being a role model, I was wondering whether it might be possible to forgo the one-time-use plastic cups for your ice coffee? Does the cafe accept re-usable mugs that customers bring themselves?
Congrats bro! Great on you man.
Nice, 2 nd but hope to take my 3 rd this year depending on the pandemic, congrats