Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Belt Ranking System (And What to Focus on at Each Level)
If you’re starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) for the first time, the belt system can feel like a mystery. Unlike some other martial arts, BJJ takes years of practice to move through the ranks, and each belt level has its own challenges and rewards.
White Belt – Build Your Foundation
Meaning: The beginning of the journey. Everyone starts here! Your job is simply to show up and learn.
Focus on:
Learning how to survive and escape from bad positions (mount, side control, back control).
Developing solid movement and guard retention.
Understanding fundamental positions: mount, guard, side control.
Staying calm and breathing under pressure.
Blue Belt – Experimenting with Different Options
Meaning: You’ve built a base and now start building your own style.
Focus on:
Refining your defense and becoming hard to submit!
Building reliable sweeps and submissions that you can use against resisting partners.
Learning proper grip fighting and control.
Starting to roll with strategy instead of pure instinct.
Purple Belt – Refine & Teach
Meaning: The “technician’s belt.” Purple belts are problem-solvers who understand the game deeply.
Focus on:
Sharpening your favorite positions.
Connecting techniques together into chains and combos.
Helping white and blue belts improve. This deepens your own understanding.
Paying attention to efficiency by using less muscle and focusing more on timing and leverage.
Brown Belt – Polish Everything
Meaning: The final step before black belt. Brown belts are known for technical mastery.
Focus on:
Eliminating bad habits and filling gaps in your game.
Developing pressure, timing, and precision. Make your movements clean.
Studying strategy: competition tactics, points systems, and advanced transitions.
Preparing to be a leader or coach on the mats.
Black Belt – A Lifetime of Learning
Meaning: The start of true mastery, not the end. Black belts are ambassadors of the art and leaders on the mats.
Focus on:
Continuing to learn and innovate. BJJ is always evolving.
Teaching and mentoring the next generation.
Exploring new areas of the art: leg locks, self-defense applications, and competition strategy.
Passing on the culture of respect and discipline.
Tips for Progressing Through the Ranks
Consistency beats intensity. Showing up 2–3 times a week will get you further than training hard once a month.
Ask questions. Your coach and higher belts want you to succeed.
Stay humble. Every belt level is about learning, not just winning rolls.
Start Your BJJ Journey in Fulshear, TX
At Be Like Water Dojo, we make it easy to start training. Our Unlimited Membership gives you access to every program we offer: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Judo, and more for one price. This allows you to explore multiple disciplines and find the style that fits you best.
Ready to get started?
Schedule your free trial class and take your first step toward becoming a martial arts practitioner!
Frequently Asked Questions (BJJ Belt System)
How long does it take to get a blue belt in BJJ?
For most students, training consistently (2–3 times per week), it takes 1–3 years to earn a blue belt. Progress is based on skill and understanding, not just time.
Do kids follow the same belt system as adults?
No, kids have a slightly different belt system with more colors to keep them motivated as they grow. Once they turn 16, they can be promoted into the adult ranks.
Can I train in other martial arts while working on my BJJ belt?
Absolutely! With our Unlimited Membership, you can take striking, kickboxing, and self-defense classes while you work toward your next BJJ rank. This creates a well-rounded skill set and improves your overall fitness.
Is the first class really free?
Yes! Your first class is 100% free. It’s a no-pressure way to experience the dojo, meet the coaches, and see if BJJ is right for you.