How to Set Up a Black Belt Degree System

The use of colored belts to differentiate martial artists' degrees of expertise is an element of many styles of martial arts. While the order of the belts in a system vary by the art being practiced, setting up the structure and core principles to earn belts remains the same. By having defined, required skill levels to earn each belt, and clearly delineated testing methods to determine worthiness, you ensure all your students will know what is expected of them to earn their black belt.

Instructions

    • 1

      Define your belt structure for your academy. Many arts have pre-defined belt systems, such as Brazilian jiu jitsu, where practitioners progress from white to blue, to purple, to brown and then black.

    • 2

      Write out the requirements for an individual to prove his skill at each level in your belt system.

    • 3

      Determine the testing methods for your promotions. Some instructors require students to pass a pre-defined test to earn a belt after showing they are worthy of attempting it. Other instructors prefer to monitor their students and simply award a new belt when they feel an individual is ready for it.

    • 4

      Create a schedule for your gym, including set class times for varied levels of skill. While open gym hours are useful, where participants of all levels can practice, it is also important to include beginner classes and advanced classes. This will prevent the new students from being intimidated and the experienced students from becoming frustrated.

    • 5

      Instruct students in the skills of your art to prepare them for advancement up the belt ladder.

    • 6

      Monitor the progress of your students to find individuals ready for testing or promotion.

    • 7

      Promote students, or test students, when their performance demonstrates an understanding of the art that signifies they are ready for the next level from their current belt.