The Levels of Judo Belts
Judo is not just about throws and submissions. It is a journey of personal development, discipline, and respect. One of the most recognizable parts of that journey is the belt system. Each color represents a stage of growth, symbolizing progress not only in skill but also in mindset and understanding of the art.
This week at Be Like Water, we are celebrating our students who have earned belt promotions! Belt promotions are more than just a ceremony. They represent hard work, consistency, and personal growth both on and off the mat. Every promotion is a reminder that progress comes one step at a time through dedication and the willingness to keep learning.
White Belt (6th Kyu) – The Beginning
The white belt symbolizes purity and a blank slate, marking the start of your martial arts journey. At this level, students focus on learning the basics such as proper stance, balance, how to fall safely (ukemi), and simple throws. White belts build the foundation for everything that comes next.
Focus: Basic techniques, etiquette, and discipline.
Yellow Belt (5th Kyu) – Building Awareness
After gaining comfort with the fundamentals, students move to the yellow belt. This stage represents the first light of understanding as awareness begins to grow. Techniques become more refined, and students start to grasp how to use leverage and timing effectively.
Focus: Refining basic throws, grips, and combination movements.
Orange Belt (4th Kyu) – Developing Confidence
The orange belt shows confidence and consistency. Students have a stronger grasp of Judo’s core techniques and begin to develop their own style and control. Training partners start to feel the difference as movements become smoother and balance improves.
Focus: Fluid movement, combinations, and transitional groundwork.
Green Belt (3rd Kyu) – Strength and Stability
At this level, students refine their throws and groundwork to a higher degree. The green belt represents growth, stability, and a deeper understanding of Judo’s principles. Students begin to connect the physical and mental aspects of their training more consciously.
Focus: Intermediate throws, counters, and groundwork transitions.
Blue Belt (2nd Kyu) – Mastery of Fundamentals
The blue belt symbolizes calm and depth. Students at this stage demonstrate solid technical skill, tactical thinking, and the ability to apply techniques in randori (sparring). They also begin mentoring newer students, sharing what they have learned.
Focus: Strategy, advanced combinations, and defensive techniques.
Brown Belt (1st Kyu) – Preparation for Black Belt
The brown belt marks the final stage before earning a black belt. It represents maturity, control, and readiness. Brown belts are expected to show precision, discipline, and leadership while embodying the principles of Judo both on and off the mat.
Focus: Mastery of form, mindset, and readiness for Shodan (black belt).
Black Belt (1st Dan and Beyond) – The Journey Continues
Earning a black belt does not mean you have finished learning. It means you have truly begun. The Shodan, or first-degree black belt, shows a deep understanding of Judo’s techniques and philosophy. From here, higher Dan ranks reflect years of contribution, teaching, and continued self-improvement.
Focus: Lifelong learning, teaching, and embodying the spirit of Judo.
The Philosophy Behind the Belt System
Each belt in Judo is more than just a color. It is a reflection of personal evolution. The journey from white to black represents the transition from learning the basics to living the principles of Judo in everyday life.
At Be Like Water BJJ MMA, we believe that progress in martial arts mirrors progress in life. Like water, students learn to adapt, flow, and overcome challenges. It is all about continuing to grow and never stopping the pursuit of improvement.
Congratulations to Our Students
We want to congratulate everyone who earned a new belt this week. Your dedication, focus, and positive attitude inspire our entire community. Keep training hard, supporting your teammates, and enjoying the journey.
Start Your Judo Journey Today
Whether you are new to martial arts or looking to advance your skills, Be Like Water BJJ MMA offers expert instruction in Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and MMA. Join our community and start your journey toward confidence, discipline, and mastery.