Belt Promotion Guidelines

Entry-level rank; no prior experience required —this is the starting point.

Focus: 

• • Basic etiquette like bowing in & out of dojo, bowing on & off the mat, proper seiretsu (lining up before and after practice, etc)

  • Falling techniques (ukemi)

  • Introductory throws.

Minimum Skills Required:

• • Mastery of Ukemi (falling techniques)

  • 2-3 Basic throws (e.g., O Goshi, De Ashi Barai)

• 2-3 Basic pins (osaekomi waza)

Minimum Skills Required:

• • 2-3 More advanced throws (Tai Otoshi, Ippon Seoi Nage)

  • 2-3 combos and counters

  • 2-3 Basic groundwork transitions 

Minimum Skills Required:

• • Greater variety of throws & pins

  • Demonstrated control and safety 

Introduction to submissions (for students 12.5+ years old)

Minimum Skills Required:

• • Advanced throws (e.g., Uchi Mata, Harai Goshi)

  • Groundwork combinations

  • Competition & leadership experience may be required 

Minimum Skills Required:

• • Mastery of prior techniques

  • Teaching or assisting in classes

  • Strong randori (sparring) performance

  • Competition & leadership

Minimum age: 14-15 years old

Minimum Skills Required:

• • Full technical syllabus

  • Strong competition record or teaching experience

  • Strong leadership skills

Preparation for black belt testing 

Minimum age: 16–17  years old

Minimum Skills Required:

• • Demonstrated proficiency in all techniques

  • Competition / teaching record or service to judo

  • Strong leadership skills