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Meaning of the Belt Colors

The color belt system is not just a representation of rank advancement; it is also an acknowledgement of individual personal growth. Such advancement signifies not only growth within the dojang, but that of a positive character and growth outside the dojang.

White Belt

Innocence and purity. A student views the study of Taekwondo as child, whether young or old.

Yellow Belt

This belt color symbolizes the sunrise and the dawning of knowledge. Mental and physical changes begin.

Camo Belt

The day, this belt shows that the student is taking in knowledge. The students basic techniques are growing.

Purple Belt

The belt represents the darkening sky–heavy with the journey continuing to learn. There is still much to learn and the students and they must practice perseverance.

Brown Belt

Mountains and earth. This belt symbolizes the firm foundation. The first appearance of black in the belt denotes the student is practicing for the black belt.

Black Belt

This belt is black because it signifies the concentration of knowledge and control. Now the real training begins for the Taekwondo student! If kept long enough and practiced with enough, the belt with eventually turn white, signifying the full cycle of training.

Red Belt

Fire and the sun, and danger. Though the student is familiar with all the techniques, they still lack control. The student must practice executing techniques with control.

Blue Belt

Blue is the color of the sky and shows that the student is reaching up to the sky. The belt symbolizes ambition but the student must also grow their humility and patience.

Green Belt

Like the color suggests, this belt symbolizes spring and the begining of even more growth in the student.

How to Tie the Belt