How to Get a Blue Belt in Gracie Barra

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art based on Japanese Judo, with a focus on grappling, using leverage, locks and chokeholds. Gracie Barra is the name of the founder of one of the largest international BJJ schools. Unlike kung fu or aikido, Gracie Barra BJJ schools do not require mastery of a particular series or number of moves for advancement. Belts are awarded by instructors based on sparring ability; however, there are attendance requirements and benchmarks that can illustrate your progress toward a blue belt.

Instructions

    • 1

      Attend Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes at least twice per week.

    • 2

      Demonstrate skill in sparring with other students who are of the same or higher belt class as you. There are no formal tests in Gracie Barra schools, but your sparring ability and progression are noted by your instructor.

    • 3

      Attend at least eight months of classes and receive four stripes on your white belt. As a rule of thumb, these stripes are awarded based on attendance and improvement, but your instructor may decide to award them faster or slower based on your own progress.

    • 4

      Attend at least 20 months of classes if you are under the age of 16. Generally, this enables you to progress from the white belt, to the orange belt, to the green belt and finally, to the blue belt. As with adult classes, attendance alone does not guarantee a blue belt; if your skills are commensurate, you may be awarded a blue belt before you have attended the full 20 months of classes.