A List Of Judo Belts In Grade Order

The use of colored belts to signify rank in Judo is a relatively modern development and was not a part of the original Judo system as developed by its founder, Jigoro Kano.

When Judo was first introduced in the late 19th century, there were only two ranks: student (known as “Mudansha” or “No-Dan” in Japanese) and teacher (known as “Yudansha” or “Dan” in Japanese). The only way to distinguish between these ranks was by the color of the belt: white for students and black for teachers.

Over time, as Judo spread and evolved, a number of intermediate ranks were added to the system. The first of these was the brown belt, which was introduced in the early 20th century as a transitional rank between the lower ranks and the coveted black belt.

In the 1920s, the Kodokan Judo Institute in Japan began using colored belts to indicate the various ranks below black belt. The initial colors were white, yellow, orange, green, and blue, with each color indicating a certain level of skill and experience.

Over time, the use of colored belts became more widespread, and the system of colored belts as we know it today gradually evolved. Today, most Judo organizations use a system of colored belts that includes white, yellow, orange, green, blue, brown, and black belts, with various intermediate ranks (such as red and white) being awarded to individuals who have achieved particularly high levels of skill and experience.

It’s worth noting that the exact system of colored belts may vary somewhat depending on the organization or country, and that different Judo schools may have their own unique belt systems or colors. However, the use of colored belts to signify rank is now a widely accepted and integral part of the modern Judo system.

Judo Belts In Order (From White to Black)

White Belt (6th Kyu):

The starting belt for beginners. The white belt signifies purity and innocence, representing the beginner’s lack of knowledge and experience.

Yellow Belt (5th Kyu):

The yellow belt is awarded to students who have learned the basic techniques and have started to develop a foundation in Judo.

Orange Belt (4th Kyu):

The orange belt is awarded to students who have developed a more extensive knowledge of Judo techniques and have improved their skills and strength.

Green Belt (3rd Kyu):

The green belt is awarded to students who have developed a deeper understanding of Judo and have begun to master more advanced techniques.

Blue Belt (2nd Kyu):

The blue belt is awarded to students who have become highly skilled and have gained significant experience in Judo.

Brown Belt (1st Kyu):

The brown belt is awarded to students who are on the cusp of earning their black belt. At this level, students are expected to have an extensive knowledge of Judo and be highly proficient in its techniques.

Black Belt (1st Dan):

The black belt is the highest rank in Judo that can be achieved through technical skill. It signifies mastery of Judo techniques and a deep understanding of the art. There are also higher dan ranks that can be earned beyond the first dan black belt.

However…the journey doesn’t end at black belt

It’s a cliche that the black belt is the last belt you earn but the first real belt in terms of learning. If you’ve trained Judo then you’ll be well aware that this is truthful. In fact, within the black belt there are sub-rankings and you can get up to various dan. Obviously, it goes without saying that a 5th dan black belt is far more knowledgable compared to a zero dan black belt. However, there are two other belts beyond black belt. Honestly, these are rarely spoken about or seen much as it takes a lifetime of practice and dedication to get these two rankings. Interestingly, BJJ has a similar system beyond the black belt. In other words, these aren’t really obtainable by your average Judoka.

Red and White Belt

The red and white belt is a special rank that is typically awarded to individuals who have achieved the rank of 6th to 8th dan (or higher) and have made significant contributions to the development and promotion of Judo.

The red and white belt (aka “Kodansha” in Japanese) is a symbol of prestige and honor, and it is considered to be one of the highest ranks that can be achieved in Judo. The belt itself is red and white in color, with alternating red and white stripes that run the length of the belt.

In Judo, the red and white belt is often seen as a transitional rank between the lower dan ranks (1st through 5th dan) and the highest rank of 9th and 10th dan, which is typically symbolized by a solid red belt.

To be considered for the red and white belt, a person must typically have demonstrated exceptional knowledge, skill, and leadership in Judo over a period of many years, and must have made significant contributions to the art. The criteria for awarding the red and white belt may vary somewhat depending on the organization, but generally involve a combination of technical proficiency, leadership, and service to the Judo community.

Red belt

The red belt (aka “Hanshi” in Japanese) is an honorary rank that is typically awarded to highly respected individuals who have made significant contributions to the development and promotion of Judo. The red belt is the highest rank that can be awarded in Judo, and it is considered to be an extremely prestigious honor.

The red belt is not considered to be a technical rank, meaning that it does not indicate a person’s level of skill or proficiency in Judo. Instead, it is an honorary rank that is awarded to individuals who have dedicated their lives to the study and promotion of Judo, and who have made significant contributions to the art.

To be considered for the red belt, a person must typically have achieved the rank of 8th dan or higher (which is itself a highly esteemed rank), and must have demonstrated exceptional knowledge, skill, and leadership in Judo over a period of many years. The red belt is usually awarded by a Judo organization or governing body, and the criteria for awarding the rank may vary somewhat depending on the organization.

It’s worth noting that the red belt is a relatively rare rank in Judo, and that only a small number of individuals have been awarded this prestigious honor throughout the history of the sport.

What does Kyu mean in Judo?

In Judo, “kyu” refers to a student’s rank below black belt. The word “kyu” means “class” or “grade” in Japanese, and it is used to indicate a student’s level of proficiency and experience in Judo.

The kyu system in Judo is a ranking system for students who have not yet earned their black belt. Kyu ranks are generally represented by colored belts, such as white, yellow, orange, green, blue, and brown, with each color signifying a different level of skill and knowledge.

The kyu ranks are earned through a combination of factors, including technical proficiency, knowledge of Judo principles and techniques, and participation in competitions and events. Students are typically required to demonstrate their proficiency in various techniques and principles, as well as their ability to apply them in live practice, in order to earn their next rank.

The kyu system allows students to measure their progress and set goals for themselves as they work towards achieving their black belt. It also provides a structure for instructors to assess their students’ progress and tailor their training to their individual needs.