Overall conditioning for a Black Belt?

Question

It's been about 9 years since I've been active in karate, but I'm going back for my black belt. What is the best way to get conditioned for the test.

Answer 1

Sorry if this offends you. I'm a blue belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu. I'm held to higher standard now than I was as a 2nd degree black belt in karate. I remember when I first took jiu jitsu 2 years ago. I was challenged by an 3 striped white belt to a full contact fist fight and I lost 3 times in a row. Not because I wasn't fast, strong or a good striker. But because I had no knowledge of what to do once a fight hit the ground. Or how to even prevent take downs for that matter. I now hold myself to a higher regard now and consider myself a true MA practitioner. Something karate never gave me. If you want to learn true martial arts, learn Jiu Jitsu.

Answer 2

I just wanted to ALSO apologise to bubster.  Clearly he has issues...as to your actual question, I would try to do two things.  One, try to just get in overall better physical shape.  If you don't work out regularly, start doing that.  Go to the gym...list some weights....stretch....run or bike...try swimming a little.  You want to be in decent shape.  Second, try to train some in karate before jumping right back in and taking your test, that way you can practice some of the specific skills that you will be tested on.

Answer 3

You could run, lift weights, review your katas, review your basics, oooohhh JUMP ROPE, and give yourself time. Nine years is a while

Answer 4

If you know what is going to be on the test, you need to start doing that as much as possible.  If you have to run, practice running 20-30% faster and longer than you need for the test. IE, I have to run 5 1/2 miles in 50min for my next test, so I am training for 6 1/2, but still in the 50min.  That way, on the test you will not be pushing your limits on something easy like the run.

Also, do a practice test once a week or so, doing everything that is going to be on your test, back to back as fast as possible.

If it has been 9 years since you did anything, then you will probably have forgotten some things, and will need to refresh them.  They are probably still there, but covered over by 9 years of other stuff.  You need to pull it out, brush it off, test it, and polish it.   Good Luck

Also, I apologize in advance Spartan for my following comments on your question

As for Bubster,  please do not bash other arts because of your own personal failings.   If you really had gotten to 2nd degree in Karate, then were beaten by a low level Jujitsu, then your Karate was junk, and so was your belt.  Cause, really you shouldnt be playing patty-cake and spank your behind for your 2nd black test.  What probably happened was that you had learned bad "karate", then found a good Jujistu place.  OR you are a 400lb internet ninja jujitzu master who cannot lose to those mere mortal strikers.  Either way, you will soon be on my blocked list.  Enjoy.