Karate is a form of martial arts, originated in Okinawa, Japan, largest of the Ryukyu Islands. Arms, legs, knees and elbows are all used in karate's striking techniques to deliver powerful blows to the opponent. In some karate styles, grappling, throws and locks are also performed.
Ranking System
Judo architect Jigoro Kano actually developed the Dan ranking system, used now in several martial art forms. It was not until 1924 when Gichin Funakoshi, founder of Shotokan Karate, sanctioned this ranking method for use in his studios. Other teachers soon followed suit.
The Dan system identifies rank through a set of colored belts. Each practitioner studies with a belt tied around the waist of his gi, the traditional uniform worn in karate. With the Dan system, initiates begin with a high number rank (10th Kyu) and achieve lower numbers, chronologically, as they progress. Matched to each number is a specific color of belt. Graduating requires the student to demonstrate a functional knowledge of techniques and principles, embedded within his current rank.
The Belts
Belts in karate are usually 1.5 inches wide and 100 inches in length. The color selection and order differs, according to the particular school. An unofficial standard progression is white, yellow, green, brown and black. However, some institutions have adopted the pattern of white, yellow, orange, green, blue, brown and black. Originally, the colors were changed through dyeing. At the time, dyeing the belts was an inexpensive way to establish rank among peers visually. Studios in some parts of the world continue the dyeing tradition to honor the pioneers of their craft.
Dan Levels
After transcending the level of 1st Kyu, practitioners move into instructor levels (Dan). Number rankings then increase with each subsequent level, from 1st Dan to 10th Dan. Some styles only use a system that goes from 9th Kyu on down, then from 1st to 5th Dan.
Myths
There is a common fable among some karateka (karate practitioners). It claims that the colored system came about as a result of a refusal to wash the belts by early practitioners. The legend says that over time, the belts would naturally accumulate dirt and grime, becoming completely black around the time a student reached proficiency. The writers at All-Karate.com refute this argument, stating that "The dirtiest belt will never go black, and although the color change from white to yellow to brown can easily be imagined, other colors like green would be harder to achieve, unless the belt is host to a culture of particularly nasty and colorful bacteria."
Speculation
As stated earlier, the founder of karate borrowed the belt system from judo. However it is thought that even judo developer Jigoro Kano did not originate it himself. The Japanese public schools system used colored belts to rank its athletes, and it is thought to be from here that professor Jigoro recognized its usefulness in martial arts.
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