Belt Systems

This page contains information on the colour of the belt that different grade students wear, and a brief description of the meaning behind the colours.

Tang Soo Do

White and White Tag Bel tMeaning

White represents a primitive stage of achievement. Thus, the seed as it lies dormant under the snow.

Orange and Orange Tag Belt Meaning

Orange represents new growth, which appears in spring. Our Tang Soo Do knowledge begins to reveal itself

Green and Green Tag Belt Meaning

Green represents the speedy development of youth as summer arrives.

Brown and Brown Tag Belt Meaning

Brown represents power, stability, agility, weight, and wisdom.This is a stabilising stage, both mentally and physically.

Red and Red Tag Belt Meaning

Red represents blood, life, energy, attention and control. The student’s power and techniques begin to bloom and ripen.

Blue Belt Meaning

Dark Blue represents maturity, respect and honour. Our dark blue belt is given to the Cho Dan Bo (Black Belt candidate). The student must now prepare mind and body for the final step needed to attain black belt

Black Belt Meaning

Black represents mastery, calmness, dignity and sincerity. Black Belt is the final stage of one life cycle and the beginning of the next. Thus, we see that it is not only the end of one stage, but more importantly, the beginning of a path which leads up through the ranks of the higher black belts to true mastery.

Wado Ryu Karate

9th Kyu Red Belt – Fundamental Skills I (FSI)

The journey to Black Belt begins with an insight into the art. At the end of the module, the student will be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of stances, blocks and striking techniques. The student will be aware of club rules, expected behaviours and etiquette.

8th Kyu Yellow Belt – Fundamental Skills II (FSII)

Building on FSI, the student will move from basic techniques to those incorporating double movements and reactive techniques. The student will demonstrate good personal discipline, an understanding and demonstration of respect, commitment and conduct.

7th Kyu Orange Belt– Intermediate Skills I (ISI)

Following completion of FSI/11, the student now consolidates the open hand techniques and focusses on movement and timing through more complex sparring drills, techniques, katas and partner work.

6th Kyu Green Belt – Intermediate Skills II (ISII)

With a solid foundation in place and an understanding of basic techniques, emphasis is now focussed on effective control, improved timing, speed and accuracy. Competition sparring and katas, the understanding of rules, and regulations are fully imbedded and the first Bo form introduced for grading purposes.

5th Kyu Blue Belt– Intermediate Skills III (ISIII)

Multiple combinations whilst mobile come naturally by this point, technique delivery demonstrates varying levels of power and control. There is an understanding of body geometry and effects of fluidity and flexibility in movement.

4th Kyu Purple Belt – Advanced Skills I (ASI)

Consolidation of previous skills levels. Introduction of the second Bo form and natural stances, consolidation of all Pinan forms and the incorporation of Wado Ryu formal pairs work. (Ipponme and Nihonme Kihons)

3rd Kyu to 1st Kyu Brown Belts – Advanced Skills II (ASII)

At this stage, an awareness of forces generated by movement enables the practitioner to effectively redirect their opponents power through repositioning (Tai sabaki.) Working on demolition and breaking techniques and target accuracy to demonstrate the effectiveness of techniques. Consolidation of advanced katas, combinations and all formal pairs work in preparation for Blackbelt grading

1st Dan Black Belt – Highly skilled in all areas of the syllabus with a greater understanding of the philosophy and practice of martial arts. An ability to coach and mentor and act as a martial arts role model.