Gradings are performed at regular intervals throughout the year. The following list illustrates the grading, the corresponding belt colours awarded and the approximate timescale.
| Grade |
Belt |
Timescales |
| Novice |
White |
On starting |
| 6th Kyu |
Red |
3 months after White |
| 5th Kyu |
Yellow |
3 months after Red |
| 4th Kyu |
Orange |
6 months after Yellow |
| 3rd Kyu |
Green |
6 months after Orange |
| 2nd Kyu |
Blue |
9 months after Orange |
| 1st Kyu |
Brown |
12 months after Blue |
| 1st Dan |
Black |
18 months after Brown |
It takes nearly 5 years to achieve a Black Belt but if it was easy then everyone would have one!!
Remember the timescales are approximate - it is up to you whether you train harder and progress quicker. You could also join another Association and get a Black belt within 2-3 years but you have to decide whether that is a worthy qualification. |
