Taekwondo Belt Colors and Meanings
Taekwondo Belt Colors
There are numerous different types of taekwondo belts and their meanings. They generally keep students in line to learning the progression of more difficult movements. In order from lowest to highest, the belts are white, yellow, orange, green, purple, blue, brown, red, deputy, and black. Each belt has its own unique meaning and purpose.
White Belt
The White Belt is the beginner’s belt. It signifies innocence and a lack of knowledge in the art of taekwondo. The color white also symbolizes purity, which is why the White Belt is also known as the Purity Belt. The White Belt represents the start of the journey in taekwondo. It is a clean slate that allows the practitioner to focus on learning the basic techniques and principles of taekwondo. The White Belt is also a reminder that anyone can achieve greatness regardless of their starting point.
Yellow Belt
The yellow belt is the first step up from the white belt. The yellow belt signifies the earth from which a plant sprouts and takes root and this color represents the sun rising and sprouting many new developments and abilities. This is symbolic of the foundation that is being laid as the student starts their journey in Taekwondo. The yellow belt is just the beginning, but it is an essential step in the student’s journey.
Orange Belt
The orange belt signifies the start of a new dawn, full of burgeoning developments and fresh abilities. Students commence their Taeguk Ee Jang form, a fundamental martial arts system, and refine the technique of the Back Kick with the Trap variation. This orange belt is an exciting stage as students discover that even more strength and insight is possible with patience and dedication.
Green Belt
The green belt is the next step up from the yellow belt. It signifies a plants growth as the Taekwondo-Do skills begin to develop. The green belt means that a student has reached an intermediate level in their training and is ready to learn more complex techniques. At this level, students will learn how to use their newly acquired skills in self-defense situations. The green belt is an important milestone in a student’s journey towards becoming a black belt and mastering Taekwondo-Do.
Purple Belt
The purple belt represents a significant milestone in martial arts and is an emblem of growth and perseverance. It suggests a journey of learning, with much still to be discovered. This form symbolizes the strength of the mind – it must remain clear, calm and focused like a still lake; rather than the darkness of a pending storm. The purple belt further signifies the commitment and dedication necessary for martial arts mastery, and we strive to impart this important lesson to our students.
Blue Belt
The blue belt is the next step up from the green belt. It signifies maturity and proficiency in Taekwondo-Do and the holder’s imperviousness to darkness and fear. The blue belt is an intermediate level, between the beginner white belt and the expert black belt. To achieve a blue belt, practitioners must demonstrate their mastery of basic techniques and their ability to defend themselves against common attacks. The blue belt is also a symbol of confidence and self- discipline, two essential qualities for any martial artist. Whether you’re just starting your journey in martial arts or looking to test your skills at the next level, the blue belt is an attainable goal that can provide you with a sense of accomplishment and pride.
Brown Belt
Earning a brown belt is more than just an honor; it’s also an important milestone in a martial artist’s training. In some schools, brown belts represent the solid understanding of the roots of their art and serve as a reminder to allow those foundational lessons to be deeply integrated into one’s everyday practice. Along with this understanding comes the beginnings of black in the belt, featuring a single black stripe on a brown canvas.
Red Belt
The red belt is one step below the black belt. It signifies danger, cautioning the student to exercise control, and warning an opponent to stay away. The red belt is a sign of power and strength and is reserved for those who have mastered the basics of martial arts. Wearing a red belt is a great responsibility, and those who wear one must be sure to use their skills only for good.
Deputy Black Belt
As Deputy Black Belt, the student has shown remarkable dedication and growth within the discipline. They have mastered a perfect balance of power coupled with accuracy, and their black belt serves as a sign of their maturity, strength of character and confidence to confront any challenge that lies ahead. The Deputy Black Belt has acquired inner control and perseverance in order to reach this level, setting an example for others to follow.
Black Belt
A black belt is the highest rank in taekwondo and signifies mastery of the art. Black belts are often required to perform advanced techniques, such as multiple kicking or jumping spinning kick. They may also be required to spar with multiple opponents or to fight using weapons. Black belts are expected to display excellent sportsmanship and to be positive role models for other students. Obtaining a black belt requires dedication, focus, and perseverance. Black belts are highly respected in the taekwondo community and are often considered to be experts in the martial art.
With all Taekwondo belts, students must demonstrate dedication to the sport and focus their efforts on bettering themselves each and every day to truly become a master of taekwondo.