Even if you don’t know a lot about karate, you may be aware of the different belts in various colors. These colors don’t just signify someone’s “ranking” in terms of their karate prowess. They also symbolize parts of the circle of growth experienced by a plant, aiming to help practitioners be mindful of their character development. Learn more about what each belt stands for using the guide below. 

Early Belt Colors

The white belt, which symbolizes when a plant is born, is given to a new karate student. This belt is kept for about six months as students train using basic techniques without experiencing combat.

The yellow belt symbolizes the early sunlight the plant receives. Yellow belt students learn basic punches and kicks, as well as proper stances. This is followed by the orange belt, which symbolizes the sun’s warmth. Orange belt students have mastered self-defense moves, and begin learning takedowns.

Next comes the green belt, symbolizing the plant’s growth. This is the first belt for intermediate students. Students mix grappling and wrestling into their studies, often spending up to a year at this level. This is followed by the blue belt, symbolic of a plant reaching toward the blue sky. Full sparring begins at this stage, which lasts for 12 to 20 months.

Advanced Belts

The purple belt is awarded as students transition to advanced footwork and other skills, as the purple color is reflective of the changing colors of the sky at dusk and dawn. The red belt follows, symbolizing the sun’s heat and an indicator of more advanced knowledge.

The brown belt symbolizes a maturing plant, bending to the earth prior to harvest. Students at this stage have more mature techniques and are focused on perfecting their weaknesses. Finally, there is the black belt, symbolizing the darkness after sunset and the need for seeking even deeper knowledge—both physical and mental. If a student trains twice a week and dedicates themselves to this martial art, they may be able to obtain a black belt in as little as five years. 

If you’re interested in obtaining the different belts, get started by enrolling in training lessons. With karate classes for students of all ages and skill levels, Iron Dragon Fitness & Self Defense in Middletown, NY, will help you have fun while training hard. Offering online classes, after-school programs, adult karate classes, and more, there’s something for everyone. To learn more about their programs, visit them online, or call (845) 342-3413.