The Japanese Ju Jitsu Belt System: History, Meaning and Benefits

Martial arts are rich in tradition, discipline and symbolism, and one of the clearest markers of a student’s progress is the belt system. In Japanese Ju Jitsu, belts are far more than colourful pieces of cloth – they represent a journey of self-improvement, skill development and personal growth. Understanding the belt order, its history, and its wider purpose can give practitioners a deeper appreciation for their training.

A Brief History of the Belt System

The idea of using belts to signify rank originates from Japan. In the late 19th century, Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo, introduced the system to provide a visible way of recognising a student’s level of knowledge and experience. Kano awarded black belts to his most advanced students, while beginners wore white belts. Over time, coloured belts were added in between to show gradual progress.

Traditional Japanese Ju Jitsu schools, many of which predate Judo, later adopted this system as it became a useful way to measure and motivate progress. Today, almost all Japanese martial arts – including Karate, Aikido and Kendo – use some form of belt ranking system inspired by Kano’s model.

Belt Order in Japanese Ju Jitsu

While the exact belt order can vary between schools and associations, most follow a similar structure. Beginners start with a white belt, symbolising a clean slate and the start of the journey. As skills improve, students progress through a series of coloured belts before reaching the brown belt stage, where techniques are refined and deeper understanding develops. The black belt, often seen as the ultimate goal, actually represents a new beginning rather than an end. Beyond the first-degree black belt, higher dan grades recognise years of further study, teaching ability and contribution to the art.
 

 Facts About the Belt System

• In early days, belts were originally just white. As students trained over time, the fabric naturally became worn and darker in colour, gradually symbolising progression. This is often cited as the origin of the idea of the black belt representing mastery.

• Belt colours and the order of progression can differ between schools – for example, some associations include red, purple or additional stripes to mark advancement.

• Achieving a black belt in Ju Jitsu does not mean “knowing it all”. Many teachers stress that it is just the beginning of serious, lifelong learning.

Benefits of the Belt System

The belt system provides many practical and psychological benefits:

1. Structure and Progression: Students know what they are working towards and can measure their development step by step.

2. Motivation: The next belt acts as a goal, encouraging persistence through challenges.

3. Recognition of Effort: Belts acknowledge dedication, not just natural ability, rewarding consistent practice.

4. Discipline and Respect: The system reinforces values such as patience, humility and perseverance.

5. Community and Tradition: Belts connect modern practitioners to centuries of martial culture and shared values.
    

Beyond the Colours

Ultimately, the Ju Jitsu belt system is not about rushing to achieve the next rank. Instead, it is a lifelong journey of self-improvement, where each promotion reflects growth in both skill and character. The belts serve as milestones, reminding practitioners of how far they have come and how much further they can go.

In traditional Japanese martial arts, progress is measured not only in techniques mastered, but also in the discipline, resilience and respect carried into everyday life. For this reason, the belt system remains one of the most valuable and enduring features of Ju Jitsu training.

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Belt Colours at Leicester Ju Jitsu & Martial Arts

At Leicester Ju Jitsu & Martial Arts, we follow a structured belt system designed to help students of all ages progress step by step.

• Little Dragons (children’s programme): Belts begin at white and progress through red, yellow, orange, green, blue, purple, grey, pink, and finally brown. This fun, colourful pathway keeps younger students motivated while building strong foundations.

• Ju Jitsu & Kickboxing: Adults and older students progress from red, yellow, yellow/orange, orange, orange/green, green, green/blue, blue, purple/white, purple, brown/red, brown, and finally black belt.

This clear structure ensures steady development in skills, confidence and discipline, while celebrating achievements at every stage.