Practice and Promotion

Judo clubs recognize increasing knowledge and skill in Judo by awarding belts of various colours, from white to black. While it is exciting and fulfilling to be promoted, each step provides new opportunities and requires additional effort. There is no substitute for regular practice.

The traditional order of belts is white, yellow, orange, green, blue, brown, and black. Ranks below black belt are awarded by the instructors within the club. In order to earn each belt, specific techniques and skills must be learned and a list is available from the instructors. Formal gradings are held at regular intervals and students are given the opportunity to demonstrate their skills. Promotion is based upon the overall progression of the student, however, and takes into account age, fitness, safety-awareness, attendance, attitude, sportsmanship, and other factors. Simply "putting in time" will not result in repeated promotion.

Dan grades (Black belts) are awarded by Judo Canada at the recommendation of the Provincial Grading Board following a formal examination of the judoka's skill and consideration of their official record. You may see the requirements here.