Understanding the Belt Ranking System in Various Martial Arts

Whether you’re stepping onto the dojo floor for the first time or you’re a seasoned practitioner, belt rankings are more than just a piece of colored cloth around your waist. They symbolize progress, dedication, and respect for your art. In this post, we’ll break down the most common belt systems in Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) so you know what each rank represents and what gear you might need as you level up.

1. Karate

Karate belt colors and requirements can vary by style (Shotokan, Goju-ryu, Wado-ryu, etc.), but the most typical progression is:

• White Belt: Pure beginner; learning basic stances and strikes.
• Yellow Belt: Understanding of kihon (basic techniques) and simple katas.
• Orange Belt: More kata practice and introduction to sparring (kumite).
• Green Belt: Developing power, speed, and fluidity in techniques.
• Blue Belt: Advanced combos, deeper kata knowledge, and controlled sparring.
• Purple/Brown Belt: Polishing all kihon, kata, and kumite—preparing for black belt.
• Black Belt (1st Dan and up): Mastery of basics, leadership, and teaching roles.

Essential gear as you progress: a quality gi (karate uniform), hand pads for sparring, and a sturdy belt to proudly display your rank.

2. Taekwondo

Taekwondo’s belt system typically follows this sequence:

• White Belt: Foundation of poomsae (forms) and kicks.
• Yellow Belt: Intro to basic kicks and hand techniques.
• Green Belt: More dynamic kicking and beginning self-defense.
• Blue Belt: Higher kicks, combinations, and fast footwork.
• Red Belt: Control, powerful techniques, and pre-black belt forms.
• Black Belt (1st Dan+): Advanced patterns, board breaking, and teaching.

Recommended equipment: a lightweight taekwondo dobok, protective sparring gear (helmet, chest guard, shin guards), and a durable practice mat if you train at home.

3. Judo

Judo’s belt progression is usually:

• White Belt (6th Kyu)
• Yellow Belt (5th Kyu)
• Orange Belt (4th Kyu)
• Green Belt (3rd Kyu)
• Blue Belt (2nd Kyu)
• Brown Belt (1st Kyu)
• Black Belt (1st Dan+)

Judo focuses on throws and groundwork. A heavy-duty judo gi with reinforced stitching is important to withstand gripping and tossing. You may also want a tatami mat for safe practice.

4. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

BJJ belts take longer to earn, reflecting the art’s emphasis on technique and live rolling:

• White Belt
• Blue Belt
• Purple Belt
• Brown Belt
• Black Belt

Each belt can take 1–3 years (or more) to achieve. You’ll need a BJJ gi (with room for grips), rash guards for no-gi days, and mouthguards for sparring safety.

Why Belt Systems Matter

Beyond showing skill level, belts:

• Encourage goal-setting and steady progress.
• Foster respect for tradition and etiquette.
• Help instructors tailor lessons to each student’s level.

Gear Up for Your Next Promotion

No matter which martial art you love, having the right equipment is half the battle. At My Karate Store, we carry top-quality gis, belts, protective gear, and training accessories to help you advance safely and confidently. Check out our full catalog today and be ready for your next belt test!