What do the colors of Jiu Jitsu belts really mean?
Each belt tells a story of skill, dedication, and growth. From the beginner’s white belt to the master’s black belt, every step marks progress in both technique and mindset.
Understanding the belt system helps students set goals and appreciate their journey. Whether you’re just starting or already training, knowing how belts work can deepen your connection to the art.
Let’s explore the colors, their meanings, and how practitioners progress through the ranks in this fascinating martial art.
White Belt – The Beginner
The white belt is the first step in Brazilian jiu jitsu belt ranks. It is for students who are new to the sport. At this level, you will learn basic techniques and how to defend yourself.
Training helps build a strong foundation for future progress. White belts practice escapes, sweeps, and simple submissions. Mistakes are part of learning, so patience is important.
The focus is on improving balance, timing, and understanding positions. With regular practice, you will move to the next rank in the journey.
Grey Belt – Youth Level
The grey belt is the first rank for young students in Brazilian jiu jitsu belt ranks. It shows that a student is starting to learn the basics of the sport.
At this level, training focuses on simple techniques and proper movements. Kids learn how to control positions and stay safe during rolls.
They also practice showing respect to their training partners. Teachers help them build confidence and improve their focus. The grey belt is an important step toward more advanced belts.
Yellow Belt – Youth Progress
The yellow belt is a sign of progress for young students in Brazilian jiu jitsu. At this stage, students build on what they learned as grey belts. They practice new techniques and improve their control.
Training also includes learning how to combine moves during rolls. Teachers focus on helping them think ahead and plan their actions.
Yellow belts show more confidence and skill during practice. This rank prepares them for greater challenges.
Orange Belt – Advanced Youth
The orange belt shows that a young student is reaching an advanced level in Brazilian jiu jitsu. At this stage, students have strong skills and good control. They learn more difficult techniques and how to use them during rolls.
Training focuses on improving speed, strength, and decision-making. Teachers guide students to use their moves wisely and show respect on the mat. The orange belt is a big achievement that shows dedication.
Green Belt – Highest Youth Rank
The green belt is the top rank for youth in Brazilian jiu jitsu. It represents advanced skill and strong dedication.
Students at this level have mastered many techniques. They also show great control and decision-making during rolls. Training focuses on polishing their moves and preparing them for adult ranks.
Green belts are leaders among younger students. Teachers encourage them to help others and set a good example. This rank highlights their growth in both skill and character.
Blue Belt – First Adult Rank
The blue belt is the first adult rank in Brazilian jiu jitsu belt ranks. It shows that a student has learned basic techniques and positions.
Blue belts start to practice more advanced moves during training. They work on improving their timing, control, and strategies. Teachers help them understand how to apply techniques during rolls.
At this stage, students focus on developing their defense and sharpening their attacks. Blue belts build a strong foundation for higher ranks. With regular practice, they prepare for the challenges of the purple belt.
Purple Belt – Intermediate Skill
The purple belt is an intermediate rank in Brazilian jiu jitsu. It shows that a student has advanced skills and understanding. At this level, students use techniques smoothly and with confidence.
Training includes learning counters and improving transitions. Purple belts work on refining their moves and developing strategies.
Teachers encourage them to explore their style and lead by example. This rank also prepares students to help beginners during practice.
Brown Belt – Near Expert Level
The brown belt is a high rank in Brazilian jiu jitsu. It shows that the student is near expert level. Brown belts have deep knowledge of techniques and strategies. They focus on perfecting their moves and understanding finer details.
Training includes advanced drills and rolling with skilled partners. At this level, students often assist teachers in coaching beginners.
Brown belt jiu jitsu practitioners are leaders on the mat. They also work on preparing for the black belt. This rank represents years of dedication and hard work.
Black Belt – Mastery Begins
The black belt is a major achievement in Brazilian jiu jitsu belt ranks. It shows mastery of many techniques and deep understanding of the sport. At this level, students focus on perfecting their skills and teaching others.
Black belts train to adapt to any opponent and situation. They often help lead classes and share their knowledge.
This rank is not the end but the start of mastery. Black belts continue learning and improving as they set new goals in their journey.
Coral Belt – Red/Black
The coral belt, also called the red and black belt, is a high rank in Brazilian jiu jitsu. It is earned after many years as a black belt.
Coral belts show deep knowledge and commitment to the sport. They often teach and inspire others in the jiu jitsu community.
Training focuses on refining techniques and guiding students. This rank honors years of dedication and effort. Coral belts are leaders who help keep the art of jiu jitsu strong and growing.
Red Belt – Grandmaster
The red belt is the highest rank in Brazilian jiu jitsu. It is for those who have trained for many decades.
Red belts are called grandmasters and are known for their wisdom and skill. They often teach and mentor students around the world.
In places such as jiu-jitsu in Chatanooga, Tennessee, grandmasters inspire the next generation. This rank represents a lifetime of dedication to the art. Red belts help keep the traditions of Brazilian jiu jitsu alive and respected.
The Journey Through Jiu Jitsu Belts
Jiu jitsu belts show the path of growth and learning in this martial art. Each belt reflects skill, hard work, and dedication. As students train, they build strength, discipline, and respect.
Belts are not just about rank; they represent a personal story of effort and improvement. Whether you are starting or advancing, each step matters.
Jiu jitsu belts guide students through a lifetime of learning and growth. This journey helps build not just fighters, but better individuals.
Please take a look at our blog for more educational articles.