One of the most popular martial arts across many countries including India, China, Japan and others is Karate. Karate is not only distinguished by the technique but also by its philosophy, and unique belt system. The belts, in various colors, represent a student’s skill level and growth in their karate journey. Each belt carries a special meaning, reflecting progress, dedication, and mastery. In this blog, we will explore more about the meaning of karate belt colors, and their importance.
History of Karate
Karate has its origin in Okinawa and has its deep roots in Japan. While its origins are ancient, it has evolved rapidly over time. The word “Karate” combines the word “Kara” which means “empty” and “Te” which means “hand”, both combined together refer to “empty hand”, the art of hand-to-hand combat. While karate has been practiced for centuries, the belt color system is a newer addition.
Karate Ranking System
Ranking system is mainly divided into two major levels which are Kyu and Dan. Kyu ranking refers to beginner and mid level whereas Dan ranking refers to experts.
Kyu: These ranks range from 10th (beginner) to 1st (advanced) and are marked by colored belts, which differ by school or style.
Dan: The ranking of Dan starts from 1st Dan and goes up to 10th Dan. They are indicated by black belts, sometimes with gold or white stripes for higher levels. Higher Dan ranks are rare and awarded for lifelong dedication to karate.
Different Belt Colors
Colored belts play an important role in the 21st century, as they show one’s rank and experience. The tradition of different belt colors for different levels was first introduced by Dr Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo. During training as well as during competitions students wear these belts, having them wrapped around their waists fastened by an especial knot.
By looking at the belt color, karate students as well as those with the knowledge of Karate easily determine their ranking whether it is just a beginner in karate or an experienced one. White and Black belts are the most common colours in Karate martial art where White represents just the beginning and Black represents the highest ranking. There are nine solid color belts in karate, from white to black, with stripe belts in between for smaller achievements that include colors like yellow, red, brown, and others.
Students with no prior experience who just have joined Karate are not provided with any kind of belt which symbolises they are just beginners. They wear the Karate uniform but not the Belt.
Different Belt Color Meanings
White Belt (Shiro Obi)
White belt refers to the start of the Karate journey for a student. After the student learns some basic techniques of Karate they are awarded with the White belt which marks the first rank. No matter if the student is a child, youngster, or adult all have to start their journey from white belt.
Yellow Belt (Ki Obi)
After white belt, yellow belt comes which refer to significant improvement in learning. At this level students learn some more advanced techniques and improve their skills.
Orange Belt (Daidaiiro Obi)
Similar to the sun, how it turns a bit darker as time goes by and spreads its hotness and makes it difficult for a plant to survive, in the same way in karate, once students reach this level, training becomes harder for students. In this step students learn more kata and refine their existing skills.
Green Belt (Midori Obi)
The green belt indicates more improvement in skill and harmony, like nature. At this level they learn more complex techniques and apply them in their practice sessions. It is also at this stage that many styles introduce sparring, wherein students practice controlled fighting. Sparring is a core part of self-defense training because it teaches the student how to avoid attacks and then respond with counterattacks.
Blue Belt (Ao Obi)
The blue belt symbolizes the sky and serenity, representing the growth of knowledge and understanding. As the plant grows, students master more advanced moves as they move on to higher levels. At this level the student develops advanced skills and learns to apply them with greater precision and control.
Purple Belt (Murasaki Obi)
The purple belt shows how a blue sky turns to darken and the color turns to purple in the same way in karate, it means as students go through different levels they gain more knowledge and understanding of martial arts.
Brown Belt (Chairo Obi)
The brown belt indicates maturity, stability, and the earth. This shows the plant is fully grown and ready for harvest. Similarly, in karate, it means the student has learned enough skills and is ready for combat. At this level, practitioners have developed good technical skills and focus on perfecting their style and deepening their understanding of karate.
Black Belt (Kuro Obi)
The Black Belt is the highest rank a karate student can attain. Normally it can take three years of continuous training to achieve this level. Black belt shows a student has completed the entire ranking system and has mastered all the skills. Although black symbolizes darkness, in Karate it shows the ending of a martial art journey and the beginning of a new journey of life with martial arts.
Two-Colored Belts
In many schools two colored belts are used to indicate the student is in mid rank. Two colors are combined together to represent the student intermediate level.
White-Yellow
Combination of white and yellow color belt shows the student is progressing through beginner level and is learning some basic skills of yellow belt.
Yellow-Orange
Combination of this color shows progress from yellow to orange belt, with improved basic skills.
Orange-Green
This color combination indicates advancement between orange and green belts, reflecting better skills and understanding.
Green-Blue
The combination of green and blue color belts represents the growth of students’ skill from green to blue belt, with more advanced techniques and control.
Conclusion
The karate belt system is more than just levels; it also reflects the personal growth of each practitioner both physically and spiritually. There is a special meaning attached to each color of the belt; it symbolizes progress, dedication, discipline, and learning.
We hope you have learned something from understanding the meaning behind karate belts and ranks.
