Every student will have their own journey and path. At OTW Martial Arts, our mission is to guide them through that journey—not just to a Black Belt, but toward building essential physical and emotional skills that serve them both on and off the mat.
We intentionally don’t set the Black Belt as the only goal. While we absolutely encourage every student to strive for it, we recognize that not everyone will get there—and that’s okay.
Many schools use the phrase “Black Belt and Beyond,” but we emphasize something different: skills, not just status. While the Black Belt is a worthy target, our focus is on what students become in the process.
We want all students—regardless of age—to gain:
These traits, especially discipline and focus, are keys to success inside the studio and beyond. We want our students to gain confidence—in their martial arts, in social situations, and in their ability to take responsibility and protect themselves or others. Every class and skill ties back to our foundational values: Respect, Honor, Love, and Strength.
We have specific guidelines for rank advancement. A student must demonstrate improved skill and confident execution of techniques. Promotion is based on individual progress, not group pacing. And we do not promote to Black Belt before age 16.
There are not only physical requirements, but also emotional and mental maturity expected of a Black Belt. While rare exceptions may arise, we adhere to this standard. The belt color does not give you the skills—your effort does.
For a young student, reaching Black Belt might take up to 11 years. The shortest path is typically around 5 years. No matter the pace, we expect our Black Belts to keep growing. Eric and I continue to train, refine, and evolve in our own journeys, and we model that for our students.
Our kids and adult programs blend multiple martial arts styles. As students enter their teen years or adulthood, we encourage them to take focused Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) classes to sharpen their ground game.
Once a student earns their OTW Karate Black Belt (Shotokan base), we invite them to personalize their training:
We’re here to support and guide their individual path.
This is the heart of what makes OTW Martial Arts so unique. We’re not just producing martial artists—we’re helping people become the kind of leaders who build real skills, take real action, and earn their success.
Through patience, repetition, and resilience—mastering each form, learning the timing of a throw, and controlling an opponent—you will build confidence, physical strength, and emotional stamina. That’s what it takes to be the 1% who earn the right to wear a Black Belt.
EARNED — NEVER GIVEN
Nate Church
Founder/Head Instructor
