Gradings were introduced because instructors realised that it was a good way to make money. That is a fact! However, they also provide other benefits. Few people want to fight in the UK and gradings give them something to aim for and challenges to overcome.

Yug's response is quite ironic considering his comments in the 'MT For The West' thread. He said then that he was attracted to MT because it was full contact and not watered down, yet here he seems perfectly happy to back MT in one of its most watered down forms! ie. MT taught karate style

What I was saying in that thread was that MT should look to ways to adapt to the needs of people in the west. Gradings is the best example of this. People who don't want to fight and may grow bored just hitting bags all day, now have something to keep them interested.

The more people we get into MT gyms the better it is for everyone who is involved. Even if they never fight, these are the people who will come to support clubmates fight, who will buy equipment, watch MT on TV and generally spread the word about MT.

HOWEVER

The problem lies with gyms trying to make people think that gradings actually have any street cred. ie. instructors making people think that all of MT has gradings and that everyone has to sit them. Bad Company make it very clear on their website that this ISN'T the case, but I wonder how many other gyms do.

How many people who pay money for gradings realise that they are only there for their personal use and have no other purpose? How many people realise that no matter what colour your armband, if you don't fight you are nothing in MT?

You might have a shiny new red armband but if you've never been brave enough to step in the ring then you can't stand shoulder to shoulder with those who HAVE.