Plan Your 2026: Important Dates for KFMA

Getting ahead of your KFMA schedule for 2026 is essential to make the most of your training and progress. The KFMA 2026 Calendar has just been updated with key dates for the upcoming year, covering pattern tests, taekwondo and hapkido gradings, as well as competitions. Whether you are a new or more experienced student, preparing for a competition or grading, knowing these dates early helps you plan your training, set goals, and stay motivated throughout the year.

Why Planning Your KFMA Year Matters

Martial arts training requires consistent effort and clear and achievable milestones. Pattern tests and gradings mark your progress and unlock new skills and ranks. Competitions provide opportunities to test your abilities under pressure and gain valuable experience. Without a plan, it’s easy to miss important events or feel unprepared when the time comes.

By reviewing the KFMA’s 2026 schedule now, you can:

• Align your training intensity with upcoming tests and competitions

• Avoid last-minute stress by preparing well in advance

• Set realistic goals for skill development and rank advancement

• Coordinate with your Master Instructor and training partners for support

  
  

Overview of 2026 Key Dates

KFMA has organised the year to balance pattern tests, gradings, and competitions, giving practitioners multiple chances to advance through the belt levels and compete. This year, KFMA will be holding 3 gradings rather than 4. Also, instead of mock gradings, KFMA now will be holding the pattern tests.

Please note that even if Students are not wanting to or do not qualify to grade, they are still expected to attend all pattern tests and gradings. This involves demonstrating respect and courtesy towards your club and fellow students, and your absence will be noted if you decide not to attend.

Pattern Tests

Pattern tests evaluate your mastery of specific forms and techniques. These tests are essential for belt promotions and skill validation. Students who wish to grade to their next belt level MUST perform the grading test- no exceptions.

• April 9th, 2026: Early-year pattern test

• July 30th, 2026: Mid-year pattern test

• November 19th, 2026: Late-year pattern test

  
  

Each test will focus on the patterns up to and including your current grading pattern. Preparing for these tests means regular practice and feedback from Master Mark. If you are unsure of your pattern, consult the handbook and ask Master Mark for help during class.

Taekwondo Gradings

Gradings assess your overall skill set, including sparring, self-defence, and theory, in addition to patterns.

• April 16th, 2026: Taekwondo grading session 1

• August 6th, 2026: Taekwondo grading session 2

• November 26th, 2026: Taekwondo grading session 3

  
  

These gradings offer opportunities to move up in rank and demonstrate your commitment to taekwondo.

Hapkido Gradings

Hapkido gradings focus on joint locks, throws, and practical self-defence techniques. Note all Hapkido gradings will occur the same evening as Taekwondo gradings

• April 16th, 2026: Hapkido grading session 1

• August 6th, 2026: Hapkido grading session 2

• November 26th, 2026: Hapkido grading session 3

  
  

Hapkido practitioners should plan their training cycles around these dates to ensure readiness.

Competitions

Participating in competitions pushes students beyond their comfort zones, enhancing both their skills and confidence. Simply by entering a competition, you've already won, as genuine personal development arises from self-challenge. So, why not try it? While competitions aren't mandatory for students, opting to compete means you'll need to commit to extra training sessions and practice at home.

• The Annual Gold Coast Open - May 2nd and 3rd.

• KTAQ Open (Springfield) TBA- we will send an email when we know the date.

  
  

Competing requires not only physical preparation but also mental focus and strategy.

How to Prepare for Pattern Tests and Gradings

Preparation is key to success in any martial arts evaluation. Here are practical tips to help you get ready:

• Create a training schedule that increases intensity as the test date approaches- it has to fit into your daily life- so make it realistic.

• Focus on weak areas identified by your instructor during regular classes.

• Practice patterns daily in short sessions to build muscle memory.

• Maintain physical fitness with strength, flexibility, and cardio exercises.

• Take on advice from Master Mark and take notes if required- all students have a notes section in the back of their handbooks- use it! Make sure you keep a pen in your training bag or handbook.

• Always ASK QUESTIONS if you need help or are unsure of something- the only silly question is the question you don't ask.

  
  

Tips for Competition Success

Competitions are not compulsory at KFMA. Competing can be intimidating but also rewarding. Competing can help you push past performance anxiety and help build confidence and skills. Gradings become a lot less daunting once you have performed at a competition. Use these strategies to perform your best:

• Start training early to build endurance and sharpen techniques.

• Study the competition rules carefully to avoid penalties- see the GC Open Booklet.

• Visualise your matches and plan your tactics.

• Practice sparring with different partners to adapt to various styles.

• Manage nerves through breathing exercises and positive self-talk.

• Rest well before the event to ensure peak performance.

• As always, ask Master Mark any questions you may have- If he does not know the answer, he will find out- DO NOT contact the event coordinator directly under any circumstances. All communication from KFMA Students is to be by Master Mark only.

• Rely on your KFMA Team Members for support and advice—we are united in this, and personal success contributes to the team's success.

  
  
  
  

Staying Connected with KFMA Updates

KFMA regularly posts updates and resources on the Wix app, blog and social channels. All announcements are made during class, however if you miss a class, you can also miss important information. Staying informed helps you:

• Receive announcements about any changes to dates or venues.

• Network with other KFMA students and competitors for support and advice.

• Stay active on KFMA socials and make sure you look at messages sent from KFMA and Master Mark.

  
  

Bookmark the KFMA blog and subscribe to newsletters to never miss important news.

Please speak to Master Mark prior to class if you have any questions or email Brooke at info.koreanfreestylema@gmail.com.

Sincerely,

Master Mark

KFMA Master Instructor