She recently earned her seventh-degree black belt in Shotokan karate — the only woman in the world entitled to wear the award in this traditional Japanese style of martial arts. Cline credits U.S. Shotokan masters for what she considered the privilege of testing — she doesn't believe she would have been given the opportunity in Japan.

"The Shotokan masters have been here for 40 years, and it's a more egalitarian culture because so many women are involved in the dojos, or schools," Cline said.

She flew to Philadelphia for the test and was grateful for the 82-degree weather and humidity. It helped her feel loose and flexible physically so she was able to do all of the moves with a full range of motion, power and speed.

It takes training as well as good weather to conquer the other challenging part of the test — nerves.

Cline was tested by seven Japanese masters. No spectators were allowed as she demonstrated various physical forms of Shotokan. The second half of the test was a question-and-answer session from the panel about everything from teaching to technical forms.

She has studied Shotokan since 1986, first under a master in Denver and then one in Philadelphia.

Cline works out either in classes she teaches, classes she takes or tests she gives. "It's like brushing your teeth," she said. "You just do it."

She enjoys the philosophy of respect, self-improvement and mind and body control that goes with Shotokan. And Cline doesn't plan to even think about testing any higher for at least eight years.

"Traditionally, you rest in place for a while and grow into the rank," said the 54-year-old. "Life experiences and wisdom are part of the Shotokan practice."

In her daily life, Cline isn't a woman to fear. She's the go-to person in Bellevue for seniors, disabled and low-income people who seek discounts on their utility bills.

"I'm a social worker and get to help people," she said.