What the colour belts mean from white to black
Have you ever wondered why we have coloured belts?
The Obi (belt) is not just meant to indicate progression in karate or guide you on where to stand in line. Each belt colour holds its own symbolism and significance.
The Obi represents more than just a colour; it embodies your journey and growth in karate.
What your Belt Colour symbolizes
White Belt (Shiro Obi) 9th – 6th Kyu
The white belt is your first belt on your karate journey. All though this belt comes with your Gi, you still need to earn this grade.
White is the beginning, (9th Kyu)
White with one red stripe either side (8th Kyu) represents purity.
White with two red stirpes either side (7th Kyu) represents innocence.
White with three red stripes either side (6th Kyu) represents open mindedness.
White is your foundation colour, and all basics need to be developed before progressing onwards.
Yellow Belt (Ki Obi) 5th Kyu
The yellow belt signifies a meaningful milestone in the learning journey. It symbolizes the first rays of sunlight that illuminate the student. It represents the initial progress in acquiring fundamental knowledge and understanding of core karate techniques.
This level indicates that you are now halfway to achieving your black belt.
Orange Belt (Daidaiiro Obi) 4th Kyu
The orange belt symbolizes ongoing growth and development. It reflects the warmth and energy of the sun as the student advances in their learning and skill refinement. This colour signifies consistent progress and a deeper comprehension of fundamental techniques.
Green Belt (Midori Obi) 3rd Kyu
The green belt represents growth and harmony. It embodies the natural progression of development, signifying a practitioner’s advancement and blossoming in their karate practice. This level indicates an intermediate stage, where students start to master more complex techniques and deepen their understanding of their applications.
Blue Belt (Ao Obi) 2nd Kyu
The blue belt symbolizes the sky and tranquillity, representing the growth of knowledge and understanding. At this stage, students develop advanced skills and learns to apply them with increased precision and control, recognizing that the potential of their techniques is as boundless as the sky.
Brown Belt (Chairo Obi) 1st Kyu
The brown belt signifies maturity and consolidation. It represents and symbolizes the earth. At this stage, the practitioner has attained a high level of technical proficiency and rooted in their form. they are focused on refining their skills and deepening their understanding of karate.
Black Belt (Kuro Obi) 1st Dan
The black belt signifies a high level of proficiency and the completion of a comprehensive learning cycle within the karate curriculum. However, this belt also marks the start of an ongoing journey of continuous improvement and development. The black belt embodies deep knowledge, a sense of responsibility, pride and a dedicated commitment to the practice of karate.