What Is the Order of Belts for Karate?

What Is the Order of Belts for Karate?
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Karate is one of the most popular and widely practiced forms of mixed martial arts. The sport of karate was invented in Japan and it is employed as a method of self-defense or as a competitive combat activity. Punching, kicking and striking are techniques used in karate. Karate is a difficult sport to master. As a way to differentiate experts from beginners, an order of belts was established.

White Belt

A white belt is designed for newcomers to karate. The website Buzzle states white was chosen to represent a beginner because that color signifies purity.

Yellow Belt

When you attain a yellow belt it means you have begun to learn the art and you are no longer a novice. The website Kreimer's Karate reports yellow was chosen because it is the color of the sunrise in the morning and it denotes "a new birth."

Green Belt

When you achieve a green belt, you are advancing and becoming skilled in karate. Kreimer's Karate states the color green was selected because it embodies the spring season. During the spring, plants and trees start to again grow and this is indicative of your maturation in karate.

Blue Belt

When you receive your blue belt, you are on your way to becoming a master at karate. Buzzle notes blue is the color of the sky. The shade of blue is intended to make you want to continue reaching for the heavens in your pursuit of karate mastery. In order to ascend to where you desire, you need to maintain your diligence and determination.

Brown/Red Belt

When you are awarded a brown/red belt, you have cemented yourself as a legitimate force in karate. At this stage, you can execute your own moves and styles and you are able to mimic the complicated maneuvers of karate masters. Brown/red is the designated color for this belt because it is a sign of blood and danger. You are now dangerous presence and foe in karate.

Black Belt

When you are presented with a black belt, you are at the pinnacle of the world of karate and you have extensive knowledge of the art. Kreimer's Karate reports black contains all colors and it is a collage, or absorption, of all the preceding level shades.

References

Article reviewed by I.P. Last updated on: May 25, 2010

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