BJJ Kids Belts Explained (Complete Guide)
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a popular martial art that teaches kids discipline and self-defence without hurting their opponents. One important part of BJJ is the belt system, which is a path for student’s progress.
This article will explore how the BJJ kids belts ranking system works, why it is important and more. By the end of this article, you will have a complete understanding of the BJJ kids’ belt ranking system, so stay tuned.
1. Overview of the Belt System
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for kids, there are 13 belts. When kids start BJJ, they get a white belt. After that, there are four groups of belts: Grey, Yellow, Orange, & Green. Each group has three belts. Here is how it looks:
2. Belt Colors for Kids
Here’s a quick explanation of all 13 belts. Every student spends at least 8 months in each BJJ belt before moving to the next one. Let’s start with the White Belt and then discuss the remaining four groups of belts:
1. White:
When kids or even adults start BJJ training, they receive a white belt.
This is the beginner level, where the student learns basic moves like how to stand, how to fall safely, and simple submissions (moves to make an opponent give up).
2. Grey/White: (Ages 4-15)
This grey belt with a white stripe is called the Grey/White Belt. The grey belt journey starts with the Grey/White belt, then moves to the Grey Belt, and finally to the Grey-Black Belt.
After gaining some experience, kids earn the Grey-White belt. At this stage, they know more about the basic techniques and are starting to get better at applying them in sparring (practice matches).
3. Grey: (Ages -15)
This belt shows more improvement. Kids with the Grey belt are starting to understand how to link moves together.
They know more advanced sweeps, escapes, and submissions.
4. Grey Black: (Ages 5-15)
The Grey-Black belt is the highest grey belt. Here, kids are getting really good at defending themselves and using different techniques in different situations.
They also understand how to think ahead in a match.
5. Yellow White: (Ages 5-15)
Once a kid reaches this level, they have a solid knowledge of the basics and are moving on to more detailed techniques.
At the Yellow-White belt, they start using more combinations and are more confident in practicing and applying new skills against their opponent.
6. Yellow: (Ages 5-15)
At this stage, kids can handle themselves well in most situations. They understand the techniques and can apply them with more speed and control. They also start learning about strategy in a match.
At this belt, kids begin to show leadership in class and help guide lower-ranked students.
7. Yellow Black: (Ages 5-15)
The Yellow-Black belt is a step closer to mastery for kids. They can think and react quickly during sparring, and they know how to counter their opponent’s moves effectively.
8. Orange White: (Ages 5-15)
Kids at the Orange-White level have a deeper understanding of BJJ. They learn how to combine moves to create stronger attacks and defenses.
They are more skilled at anticipating their opponent’s moves.
9. Orange: (Ages 5-15)
By now, kids are experienced in sparring and can handle tough matches.
They know advanced techniques and have good control of their body.
They also start helping newer students.
10. Orange Black: (Ages 5-15)
This is the highest orange belt, showing a high level of skill. Kids at this level can think several moves ahead and have strong control over their movements and their opponent’s.
They have more leadership and responsibility in class.
11. Green White: (Ages 5-15)
At this level, they have almost mastered the basics and are working on perfecting their technique. The techniques and combinations are polished, and kids have a strong competitive edge and leadership skills.
They also start practicing more complicated strategies.
12. Green: (Ages 5-15)
Kids at the Green Belt level have excellent technique and can handle almost any situation in sparring.
They understand BJJ more deeply and can teach others how to use different moves.
13. Green Black: (Ages 5-15)
The Green Black belt is the highest and final kid’s belt. At this level, they are very skilled in all areas of BJJ and Completely understand BJJ basics and intermediate techniques. They can easily use advanced techniques and think quickly in matches. Kids at this level are skilled, respectful, and can mentor others.
Once they reach the 16 age, then they can move to adult belts, starting from blue. As discussed below (in the 6th number heading).
3. The Belt Promotion Process
Promotions in the BJJ kids belt system may vary depending on different academies, but the following general criteria usually apply:
- Required time at least 8 months of practice in a belt.
- Kids need to show they know the moves and techniques.
- Good behaviour of kids in class.
- Participation in Competitions (If applicable).
Additionally, there are 5 stripes on each belt. When kids are promoted to the next level, they earn 1 stripe. Slowly, they keep earning more stripes until they have all 5. Once they get all 5 stripes, they receive a new belt with 1 stripe. Then, they continue working hard by learning new moves, improving their techniques, attending classes, and showing good behaviour and effort to earn the next 4 stripes.
4. Age Requirements for a Kid
- White Belt is given when kids start training.
- 3 Grey Belts for kids aged 4 to 15.
- 3 Yellow Belts for kids aged 7 to 15.
- 3 Orange Belts for kids aged 10 to 15.
- 3 Green Belts for kids aged 13 to 15.
5. Importance of BJJ Belt for Kids
The belt ranking system is important for kids because it shows their progress. If a child works hard, practice regularly, and compete, they will expect to be rewarded for their efforts. Without promotions, they might feel discouraged.
However, when we give them belts, it helps them stay motivated and see that they are improving. The ranking system shows that with more practice, they can earn higher belts.
Learn the Top 10 Benefits of BJJ, Here is a quick table:
6. Process of Kids Moving to Adult Belts
When kids turn 16 years old, they move to the Adult BJJ ranking system. The white belt stays the same, but the Grey, Yellow, and Orange belts can change to a Blue belt, based on what the teacher decides. The Green belt can turn into a Blue, or Purple belt, also depending on the teacher’s choice.
This is a quick table to understand the Adult belt ranking system,
7. Short Overview of the Article:
In this article, we explain the BJJ Kids’ belt ranking system.
- First, we start with an overview of the 13 belts, beginning with white, and then followed by 4 groups: Grey, Yellow, Orange, and Green. Each group has 3 belt ranks.
- In the second part, we explain all 13 belts, the benefits, and the role of each rank.
- Then, in the third part, we explain how students can get promoted to the next belt and cover all the important points needed for the next belt.
- After that, we discuss the age requirements for each belt.
- Then, we explain why the BJJ belt is important for kids.
- Finally, we quickly explain the process of moving to the adult belt system when kids turn 16, so how they move to adult belts.
You May Like:
- History of Jiu-Jitsu (4 Thousand Years Ago to Now).
- 32 Types of Jiu-Jitsu.
FAQS
Is BJJ enough for self-defense for kids?
Yes, BJJ is enough for self-defense for everyone, especially for kids. In BJJ, you don’t hurt the other person; you simply defend yourself using techniques. Thanks to Mitsuyo Maeda, who brought jiu-jitsu to Brazil, and to the Gracie family for improving it, a smaller and weaker person can easily defeat a larger and stronger opponent without causing much harm. Want to know more? Check out this quick BJJ guide.
What is the highest belt in BJJ for kids?
The highest Kids belt is BJJ is Green-and-Black Belt.
How long do kids BJJ belts take?
The time depends on different academy rules, but a minimum of 8 months is needed for any kid to spend on each belt.
Can kids who start BJJ young become good fighters as adults?
Yes, starting BJJ at a young age can help kids become good fighters when they grow up. With years of training, they learn techniques, build strength, and gain confidence. Their early experience in BJJ can give them a big advantage as they grow older. Many top fighters started their BJJ careers in childhood and practiced for many years. By adulthood, they became some of the best fighters in the world. Check out some of them in the top 12 Best BJJ Fighters.
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