In the Korean discipline of Taekwondo, students move up through different levels. Uniform belts show how experienced people are, acknowledging effort and providing tangible rewards that encourage hard work. While stages vary slightly from school to school, here is an overview of the most common belt system.

A Brief Guide to the Belt Groups in Taekwondo

1. Junior

Upon joining the school or attending a certain number of classes, a student receives a white belt. Representing innocence and purity, the color provides a fresh start to their journey in martial arts.

Once they have learned the basics, they may be tested every three months to move up to another level. If they pass the first test, they earn a yellow stripe or tip on their belt. They then receive the full yellow belt, followed by a yellow one with a green line.

2. Intermediate

The first intermediate-level belt is green. The color symbolizes a plant, representing the student’s continuous growth. Once they show their mastery of their rank’s moves, sparring techniques, and forms, they earn a blue stripe on their belt, followed by the blue sash.

Blue represents the sky, meaning the student is reaching new heights. The blue belt earns a red line, then progresses to red. The red belt with a black line is the final level in the intermediate group. Once they have reached this level, they are ready to train for their first-degree black belt. It typically takes three to four years to get to this point.

3. Advanced

Senior-level belts are black. There are nine degrees, or Dans, of black sashes. Moving up through each Dan may take anywhere from one year to a few years. Many instructors hold these belts.

While belts sometimes remain black throughout all levels, white stripes or numbers might showcase a martial artist’s Dan. People achieve Master status at the 5th degree. The 9th Dan is the highest level, giving someone Grand Master status. The 10th degree is typically only awarded posthumously to recognize a lifetime dedicated to Taekwondo.

To watch your child rise through Taekwondo ranks, enroll them at ATA Infinite Martial Arts in Centennial, CO. This martial arts school has taught children and adults throughout Greenwood Village, Aurora, and Lonetree since 1969. The academy’s owners began practicing martial arts as children and want to share the same transformative experience with your family. Their knowledgeable Taekwondo instructors will help your children achieve greater discipline and confidence. Learn more about their programs online, or call (303) 353-4951 to sign up.