Why Student Teachers Run the Dojo

The road to Black Belt is a long journey. And earning 1st Dan (degree) Black Belt is really just the start of a new one. The title of Sensei is reserved for those Black Belts who also become teachers, and it's awarded by their own instructor. Not every Black Belt becomes a Sensei — but those who do usually started teaching long before they got there, as assistants and student teachers.

At EVX, like most dojos worth their salt, we foster an environment of mutual support: everyone helps everyone grow. Our school is built on the idea that empowering yourself and empowering others are the same project. Helping teach other students sharpens your own skills in the process.

There's an old saying for a reason: "To teach is to learn twice."

My original instructor had me leading kids' classes — and even beginner adult classes — back when I was a green belt. I was honored to help my Sensei and support the school by teaching new students the basics.

There's a misconception that only Black Belts or the Chief Instructor should lead classes. The Chief Instructor (in this case, me) is the spearhead of technique development and the primary representative of the school — but the dojo is an entity made up of all of its members and moving parts, including student teachers.

A student teacher — often called Senpai — is entrusted by the Chief Instructor to assist with a class (holding pads, drilling beginners, helping with corrections) or, for those with more experience, to lead a full group or class. It's also worth saying out loud: even Chief Instructors need time off. As much as I love training, I have to step away sometimes for my own family and life. The school keeps running because of the people who step up.

Teaching martial arts effectively is a skill, like anything else. Just showing up to learn the material is the first step. At EVX, our Black Belt instructors and student teachers meet regularly to discuss how to teach better — how to communicate with students more clearly, how to make it stick so retention is actually high, and how to keep classes safe, focused, and fun. Repetition and positive reinforcement are huge keys, and we're always sharpening that toolkit.

The next time you see a student teacher running drills or helping in class, take a second to thank them afterward. They volunteer their time to share what they know and help others learn faster. They bring a good attitude. They make the dojo better.

---

I started this school back in 2008, but the dojo isn't just me. It's the students and student teachers who show up, share what they know, and lift each other. Take pride in the fact that EVX isn't just my dojo — it's our dojo.

Empower Yourself. Empower the World.