At One Way Martial Arts, we adhere to the belt ranking guidelines established by the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF). Detailed information about IBJJF's promotion criteria can be found at www.ibjjf.org
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From the One Way Martial Arts YouTube channel.
What's Expected From Each Belt in BJJ?
Mahamed Aly breaks down the real path from white belt to black belt: what coaches expect at each rank, why blue belt is the first big test and purple belt can be the hardest stage mentally, and how brown and black belt are about maturity, teaching and efficiency. He also talks about team loyalty and switching gyms, what stripes really mean, and why consistency beats talent over the long run.
Watch on YouTube →How Do I Get a Jiu-Jitsu Blue Belt?
Mahamed Aly explains what a blue belt really means, how promotion systems differ between academies, why competition helps you develop, and why your training goals matter more than the color of your belt.
Watch on YouTube →What are the Belt Rankings in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
One of the critical aspects that makes BJJ intriguing and motivating is its belt ranking system. This system not only signifies a student's skill level but also represents their time on the mat, dedication, and growth in the art.
The Belt Colors and Progression
- White Belt: The starting point for all students. As a white belt, you learn the fundamental techniques and principles of Jiu-Jitsu. This phase is about building a strong foundation.
- Blue Belt: The next step after white. Earning a blue belt typically takes 1-2 years of consistent training. Blue belts are expected to have a solid understanding of basic techniques and start developing their game, which means finding and refining moves and strategies that work best for them.
- Purple Belt: Achieving a purple belt is a significant milestone, usually taking around 4-6 years from the start. Purple belts are advanced students with a deep understanding of Jiu-Jitsu. They begin to mentor lower belts and refine their skills further.
- Brown Belt: This belt is the penultimate rank before black. Brown belts are highly skilled and have a comprehensive understanding of both offensive and defensive aspects of Jiu-Jitsu. They often spend 1-2 years at this rank, honing their techniques to perfection.
- Black Belt: The black belt is a symbol of mastery in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Achieving this rank typically takes 10-15 years of dedicated training. Black belts are experts in their craft, often contributing to the art through teaching, competing, and evolving the techniques.
Stripes and Degree System
Each belt, except for the black belt, has a system of stripes (usually four) that indicates progress within that belt rank. Stripes are awarded based on the student's skill development, time spent training and contributions to the gym and the Jiu-Jitsu community. They serve as intermediate goals and motivate students to continue progressing.
The ranking system for black belts continues with degrees. The first-degree black belt is awarded after three years of holding a black belt, with subsequent degrees awarded every three years. The highest rank in BJJ is the red belt, which is typically awarded after 48 years of black belt dedication. It symbolizes the pinnacle of Jiu-Jitsu achievement.
What is the highest belt in BJJ?
The red belt is the highest belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Under the IBJJF graduation system, a black belt keeps earning degrees for decades. At 7th degree the belt turns red and black, known as the coral belt. At 8th degree it is red and white. At 9th and 10th degree it is solid red, and the 10th degree was reserved for the pioneers who founded the art.
| Rank | Belt |
|---|---|
| Black belt, 1st to 6th degree | Black |
| 7th degree | Red and black (coral belt) |
| 8th degree | Red and white |
| 9th and 10th degree | Red |
Most people who train will never meet a red belt. For you, the goal that matters is the next stripe.
Kids belts in BJJ
Children under 16 train on a separate belt system: white, grey, yellow, orange and green. At 16 they move into the adult system of white, blue, purple, brown and black. At One Way Martial Arts, Kids BJJ runs in four age groups: Tumblers 2 to 3, Tots 4 to 6, Kids 7 to 10 and Teens 11 to 14.
Factors Influencing Promotion
- Skill Level: Mastery of techniques, ability to perform under pressure, and understanding of Jiu-Jitsu principles are crucial.
- Time and Experience: Regular training, participation in classes, and years spent on the mat are significant factors. Consistency is key in BJJ.
- Competition Performance: Success in competitions can expedite promotions, as it demonstrates the ability to apply techniques effectively against resisting opponents.
- Teaching and Mentorship: Contributing to the growth of others by teaching and mentoring lower belts is highly valued in the Jiu-Jitsu community.
The Importance of Patience and Persistence
The path through the Jiu-Jitsu belt ranks is long and demanding, requiring patience, persistence, and a love for the art. Each belt represents not just technical proficiency but also personal growth, discipline, and resilience. The belt system in BJJ is unique because it emphasizes the process rather than the destination, encouraging students to continuously improve and evolve.
Conclusion
The Jiu-Jitsu belt ranking system is a comprehensive and rewarding structure that motivates students to strive for excellence. Whether you're a beginner at the white belt level or an advanced black belt, each stage offers valuable lessons and experiences. Embrace the process, stay dedicated, and enjoy the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
As we always say, "A Black Belt is a White Belt who never gave up."
Where to start BJJ in Alexandria, VA
Every student at One Way Martial Arts starts at white belt, including the ones who later compete. Promotions follow the IBJJF guidelines. Classes run at 5416 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA, next to the Van Dorn Street Metro. See the adult BJJ program and the class schedule. Free first class. Come in athletic clothes, and we lend you the gear you need. Get my free first class.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest belt in jiu-jitsu?
The red belt. Under the IBJJF system, black belts earn degrees over decades: 7th degree is the red and black coral belt, 8th degree is red and white, and 9th and 10th degree are solid red.
What is the BJJ belt order?
For adults: white, blue, purple, brown and black. Children under 16 use white, grey, yellow, orange and green, then move into the adult system at 16.
How long does it take to get a black belt in BJJ?
Typically 10 to 15 years of consistent training. Blue belt usually takes 1 to 2 years, and purple belt around 4 to 6 years from your first class.
How many stripes are on a BJJ belt?
Usually four. Each colored belt below black has up to four stripes that mark progress before the next promotion. Black belts earn degrees instead.