How Many Belts Are There in Taekwondo? A Guide for Kids

Introduction

Taekwondo is a popular martial art known for its fast, high kicks and powerful punches. One of the most exciting parts of learning Taekwondo is advancing through different colored belts. Each belt represents a new level of skill, discipline, and experience. But how many belts are there in Taekwondo? What do the different colors mean? In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Taekwondo belts. Whether you’re just starting or already practicing, this guide will help you understand the belt system and what it takes to move to the next level.

What Is the Taekwondo Belt System?

The belt system in Taekwondo is a way to show progress and mastery in this martial art. Each belt represents a specific level of skill, and students must train and pass tests to move to the next belt. The color of the belt symbolizes a student’s rank and growth in their journey from a beginner to a master.

Taekwondo uses 10 colored belts for beginners, and then students move to black belts, which have 9 additional ranks (called dan). Each rank and belt in Taekwondo requires discipline, focus, and dedication to earn.

How Many Belts Are There in Taekwondo?

In total, there are 19 ranks in Taekwondo:

• 10 colored belts (from beginner to advanced)
• 9 black belt ranks (dan levels)

White Belt (10th Gup)

The white belt symbolizes a fresh start, much like a blank sheet of paper. It represents a beginner who is just starting to learn the basics of Taekwondo. At this stage, students are full of potential and eager to absorb knowledge. It is the foundation for future growth and development in their martial arts journey.

Yellow Belt (9th Gup)

Yellow represents the earth, the source from which a plant begins to sprout. A student at this level is starting to understand the basic techniques and principles of Taekwondo. This stage marks the beginning of physical and mental growth, as they lay down the roots of their practice.

Orange Belt (8th Gup)

The orange belt symbolizes the warmth of the sun, which helps a plant grow and thrive. At this stage, a student is showing progress in their skills and techniques. They are beginning to develop more confidence, strength, and coordination in their movements.

Green Belt (7th Gup)

Green signifies the plant’s sprouting leaves, showing growth and improvement. A student at the green belt level has demonstrated increased physical ability and a better understanding of Taekwondo techniques. This stage reflects continued development and refinement of basic skills.

Blue Belt (6th Gup)

The blue belt represents the sky, symbolizing limitless potential as the plant reaches upward. Students at this level begin to tackle more advanced techniques and forms. Their skills are becoming more polished, and they are building on their foundational knowledge.

Purple Belt (5th Gup)

Purple is a transitional color, blending the blue of the sky with the red of discipline and power. At this stage, the student is preparing for higher ranks, refining their techniques, and honing their skills. They are developing a deeper understanding of Taekwondo and are ready to face more advanced challenges.

Brown Belt (4th Gup)

The brown belt symbolizes solid roots, indicating that the student has developed a strong foundation in Taekwondo. At this point, the student is confident in their abilities and has a deep understanding of the techniques they have learned. They are now preparing for the advanced stages of their training.

Red Belt (3rd Gup)

Red represents danger and caution, signaling to others that the student has achieved significant skill. While they possess great power, this stage emphasizes the need for control and discipline. The student must now focus on refining their techniques and maintaining composure in challenging situations.

Red-Black Belt (2nd Gup)

The red-black belt is a transitional stage, indicating that the student is nearing their black belt. It represents mastery over many techniques and readiness for the black belt exam. At this level, the student is preparing for the final steps in their Taekwondo journey, showing advanced skills and discipline.

Black Belt Candidate (1st Gup)

A black belt candidate has demonstrated great dedication, skill, and discipline throughout their Taekwondo training. They are now ready for the ultimate test to earn their black belt. This stage reflects the culmination of years of hard work and preparation for the final challenge that marks their transition from student to master.

The Black Belt Levels (Dan Ranks)

After earning a black belt, students move through nine dan levels. These ranks are only given to black belts who continue to demonstrate mastery and dedication to Taekwondo.

• 1st Dan (Il Dan): A beginner black belt.
• 2nd Dan (Ee Dan): A more advanced level, usually achieved after 1-2 years of practice.
• 3rd Dan (Sam Dan): A black belt with deeper knowledge and teaching ability.
• 4th Dan (Sa Dan): Often considered the master level, allowing the holder to teach others.
• 5th Dan and above: These are higher levels of mastery that take many years to achieve.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Black Belt?

On average, it takes 3 to 5 years of consistent training to earn a black belt in Taekwondo. The exact time can vary depending on how often a student practices, their dedication, and their natural abilities. Some students may take longer, and that’s perfectly fine!

Why Are Belts Important in Taekwondo?

The belt system in Taekwondo isn’t just about showing who is better; it’s a way to motivate students and track their progress. Each new belt is a reward for hard work, focus, and discipline. It also teaches students the importance of setting goals and achieving them through dedication.

Training Focus for Taekwondo Belts

• Beginner Belts (White, Yellow, Orange):
  The focus is on learning basic techniques, including kicks, punches, and forms (patterns). Discipline and respect for the martial arts are also emphasized.
• Intermediate Belts (Green, Blue, Purple):
  At this level, students build on their skills by learning more advanced techniques and combinations. They start practicing sparring with partners and improve their stamina and strength.
• Advanced Belts (Brown, Red, Black):
  These belts focus on mastery, self-defense techniques, and more complex sparring strategies. Advanced students also learn to teach others and refine their control over techniques.

Table of Taekwondo Belt Colors and Ranks

Conclusion

The journey through the different Taekwondo belts teaches students much more than just physical techniques. It helps them develop mental discipline, focus, respect, and a strong sense of achievement. Whether you’re aiming to earn your first belt or working towards a black belt, every step in Taekwondo brings you closer to becoming a better martial artist. Remember, the belt is just a symbol—the real reward is the knowledge and skills you gain along the way!

FAQs

1. How many belts are there in Taekwondo?
   There are 10 colored belts and 9 black belt ranks, making a total of 19 ranks.
2. How long does it take to earn a black belt?
   It usually takes 3 to 5 years of dedicated practice to earn a black belt.
3. What does the white belt mean in Taekwondo?
   The white belt represents a beginner who is just starting to learn Taekwondo.
4. Why are there different belt colors in Taekwondo?
   Each belt color symbolizes a student’s progress, skill level, and growth in the art of Taekwondo.
5. What is the highest belt in Taekwondo?
   The highest belt is the 9th dan black belt, which signifies a Taekwondo master.