BELT RANKING SYSTEM:
The belt system is used as a method of evaluating merit and development of students. As a student of
karate develops physically, he is expected to develop his character as well,
There are some misconceptions, however, concerning belt ranks. People compare belt ranks between
schools and place high importance on the color of the belt. While the belt is a symbol of hardwork and
dedication within a school, it is no just basis for comparison between schools. The requirements for each
level vary with each karate style and in each dojo according to the Sensei’s standards, which reflect the
degree of perfection which he demands of himself. Emphasis should not be placed on what color belt a
student wears, but rather on their actual ability, attitude, and improvement.
The adult belt ranking system for below black belt is as follows:
Beginner Kyu Gai - White belt
9th (kyu) Kyu - White belt with one stripe
8th (hachi) Kyu - Orange belt
7th (shichi) Kyu - Orange belt with one stripe
6th (roku) Kyu - Green belt 1st degree
5th (go) Kyu - Green belt 2nd degree
4th (yon) Kyu - Green belt 3rd degree
3rd (san) Kyu - Brown belt 1st degree
2nd (ni) Kyu - Brown belt 2nd degree
1st (ichi) Kyu - Brown belt 3rd degree
The kid's belt ranking system for below red belt (Jr. Black Belt) is as follows
(you may see this if you ever go to the main dojo when Juniors are having class)
Beginner Kyu Gai - White belt
9th (kyu) Kyu - Yellow belt
8th (hachi) Kyu - Yellow belt with one stripe
7th (shichi) Kyu - Yellow belt with two stripes
6th (roku) Kyu - Purple belt
5th (go) Kyu - Purple belt with one stripe
4th (yon) Kyu - Purple belt with two stripes
3rd (san) Kyu - Blue belt
2nd (ni) Kyu - Blue belt with one stripe
1st (ichi) Kyu - Blue belt with two stripes
