The different ranks are indications of the level of accomplishment of students. After learning all techniques from the syllabus for a particular stage, students are invited to undergo a test referred to as a grading. Following successful completion of the grading, students are awarded their new belt level. At first, gradings are held closer together, but as the rank increases so too does the gap between them.

Higher ranks need to incorporate their new material but also must ensure the development and integration of all prior learning. Dan grades after Black Belt are achieved not through a system based on time served but through appraisal of current training and teaching.

		White Purity, innocence and open-minded trust
		Yellow Maturation of the seed that can grow; energy and brightness like the sun
		Green Like a tree, growth, aliveness and development
		Blue Reaching for the sky above, a time of improvement and understanding
		Red Like fire, energy and determination, change and surpassing previous stages
		Black A blank slate, beginner’s mind, a reminder that learning has really just begun; the combination of all colours.
		1st - 8th Dan Refers to the level of Black Belt and means ‘birth’. This indicates the transition into a new stage of learning.

When tying your belt, ensure that there are two equal lengths at each end. This symbolises equilibrium in life and of mind, body and spirit.