Grading system
Unlike other martial arts where a Black Belt marks a person’s proficiency in a style, in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu the rank of Black Belt is given to individuals who have mastered the art.
The Tokon Academy Brazilian Jiu Jitsu programme follows the current International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) guidelines for progression through the ranks of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and all of our grades are awarded by Roger Gracie Black Belt and founder of the Jiu Jitsu Brotherhood - Nicolas Gregoriades.
Our Brazilian Jitsu programme is open to anyone over the age of 5 years but like all Jiu Jitsu schools, belt rankings are different for under 16’s (juniors) and those over 16 (seniors). Each person requires 4 ‘stripes’ before becoming eligible for their next, stripes are awarded based on proficiency and ability and belt promotions for those eligible are conducted every six months – June (summer) and December (winter).
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Black Belts are typically awarded one stripe every three years up to ten stripes. For those individuals awarded 8th and 9th degree Black Belts a ‘coral’ (black & red) belt is awarded, whereas 10th degree black belt is a solid Red belt. This, however, this is awarded only to individuals that have made a huge contribution to the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. There are special classifications for Black Belt fighters and instructors, instructors have Black Belts with red bands and Black Belt fighters have white bands.
Typically, Black Belt instructors are not allowed to promote others up to Black Belt rank until they receive their first stripe.
Belts for under 16 years
- White
- Yellow (awarded to those between 7 – 15 years)
- Orange (awarded to those between 10 – 15 years)
- Green (awarded to those between 13 – 15 years)
Belts for over 16 years
- White
- Blue (awarded to those 16 years and over)
- Purple
- Brown (awarded to those 18 years and over)
- Black (awarded to those 19 years and over)
