Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or BJJ is a martial art which was created to emphasize skill and technique, used for a smaller or weaker opponent to defeat a larger or stronger one. BJJ places a lot of importance on practical application of the art, which means sparring lots of sparring. This makes the martial art unique to many other martial arts because it is possible to spar many times per week and late into a practitioner's life at an intense level. These aspects of BJJ make the martial art challenging but, more importantly, very rewarding.

     The BJJ belt system is at the core of the traditional roadmap for the BJJ players journey from brand new start to a veteran expert. The belt order shows teammates and  others the technical level but also the time an individual has spent in the art. While in general the belt structure is similar throughout academies around the world, promotion criteria vary heavily on the individual, academy and instructor. Please keep this in mind as you read this article.

Table of Contents:

• What is the BJJ Belt Order?

• Why is the BJJ Belt Order Important?

• How to Progress Through the BJJ Belt Order

• Tips for Advancing Through the BJJ Belt Ranks

What is the BJJ Belt Order?

    The BJJ belt order system is a ranking system which traces its roots back to Judo. Unlike some martial arts that promote based on tests or time spent training, BJJ players typically receive their higher rank based on a matrix of characteristics. For example, technical ability, practical application, competition results, overall growth on the mat and other factors which may be unique to the person. This system allows for a clear path to black belt for all beginners headed into their first class. Of course, each instructor and academy weigh these categories and others differently in their assessment.

    The BJJ belt system consists of five ranks: White belt, Blue belt, Purple belt, Brown belt and Black belt. BJJ players start at the white belt, here the BJJ journey starts. One focuses on learning the fundamentals of BJJ, the skills needed to survive in bad positions, the first series of submissions such as the rear naked choke or the triangle choke. Additionally, a player starts to learn how to become comfortable under the stress of live sparring, specific training or even competition. Blue belt is where the player first starts to get ideas of their “own game”, picking the techniques and strategies that they believe best suit them. Many players spend many years at the Blue belt improving their defense and developing their own style. Purple belt is the next step. For the first time the BJJ player is considered an advanced student. Diving deep in how to connect the positions through transitions, understanding the core principles of BJJ like control and perhaps even teaching beginners classes. Brown belt, most importantly it is the final step before the black belt. Typically a student has a developed game of their own, at the Brown belt they will spend the time needed to hone their skills and refine their techniques. Black belt, it is the symbol of one's mastery of the martial art. Showing the many years one has dedicated to their craft.

     Each belt level in BJJ represents a distinct phase in a player's journey. Each step requires a different physical and mental approach. The structure of the belts stays similar across the globe while the criteria on how one is promoted varies wildly.

Why is the BJJ Belt Order Important?

The BJJ order is both symbolic and practical for the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu community. Acting as a road map to starters on their progress through the martial art. With each belt level representing an unique stage in the development of the player. Beyond setting the goals at each belt for skill progression, the BJJ belt system fosters discipline, perseverance and motivation. Moving through the BJJ ranks requires a great deal of dedication, consistency and humility. To both learn from success and failures. Ultimately, the belt order is more than just a ranking system. It is a reflection of one's growth in the martial arts. Showing how one is disciplined, mentally tough and deeply connected to the BJJ community.

How to Progress Through the BJJ Belt Order

BJJ belt order requires a combination of time, consistency and dedication to mastering the techniques. This is the case because the BJJ player demonstrates their growing understanding of the various aspects of each level of the belt order. Beyond technical ability and attitude and mindset play a huge role- perseverance, humility and commitment to continuous learning. Perhaps this is the case even more so than the physical skills required in BJJ. EAch belt shows the unique part of the BJJ players course through the martial arts. However, one must never forget that the focus of the belt ranking system is to order the persons path through their BJJ journey.

Tips for Advancing Through the BJJ Belt Ranks

While many seek short cuts and secrets to advancing through the BJJ belts faster. The simple truth is one must be consistent, dedicated and committed to improving their overall being and skill. Continuous improvement is the key to making it through the belt ranks. Focused training with a regular schedule is key to making achievements through the martial arts. Seeking feedback from instructors and teammates is essential to reaching the next level in techniques and strategy. Taking part in competitions will also accelerate your improvement as a martial artists. Above it all, it is important to not lose sight of why you started BJJ in the first place, and enjoy your time on the mats!

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