05/30/2026
A grueling, beautiful hour of absolute intensity.
Last night marked another first for me behind the lens: capturing a Black Belt test at Elite Tae Kwon Do in Monroe, Wisconsin.
I managed to sneak in early to catch the quiet before the storm, documenting the two candidates warming up and mentally preparing in the basement. The contrast between that silent, focused preparation and the explosive, hour-long test that followed was incredible to witness. This wasn’t just a physical challenge; it was a complete mental and emotional gauntlet. From precision weapon forms and gravity-defying jumps to shattering boards, these two left absolutely everything on the mat.
A massive congratulations to Monroe’s newest black belts. You earned every single thread of them last night. But as their Master reminded everyone at the end of the night…the belt isn’t a destination. It’s simply the indicator that you are ready for the next stage of an ongoing journey with no real end. 🥋🔥👊📸