The martial arts is an ancient practice that continues to be popular throughout the world. Although requirements differ by organization, most martial arts implement a belt system in which different colored belts are awarded to students as they develop. The belts tend to begin with white for a novice and get increasingly dark, culminating in black for the master.
Time Between Belts
Each belt requires a minimum amount of time spent learning before the student can apply to proceed to the next highest belt. In general, this period is at least three months, although black belts are the exception, requiring at least a year and sometimes two.
Physical Requirements
Beginning belts often require a specific amount of physical testing through basic strength exercises to show fitness before moving on to darker belts. This testing might include push-ups, sit-ups and various stretches such as the butterfly stretch or standing leg stretches.
Martial Art Skills
A key part to progressing to a higher belt is demonstrating the skills you have learned in preparation for the new belt. For example, for early belts you might be required to show skills such as basic punches, blocks and kicks. For higher belts, you might be required to show greater skill with more advanced moves, such as board breaking, chokes, specific forms, and self-defense techniques when dealing with a knife or gun. Sparring also is a common requirement, facing opponents with more advanced belts as you progress.
Other Requirements
There typically are more requirements for more advanced belts. For example, purple belts and above might require an oral or written examination or presentation. A certain number of sparring matches also might be required. For the transition to brown or black belt, you also might be required to spend time teaching a martial arts class to lower belts. You also must be 18 years old to receive your black belt.
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