How Many Belts Are There in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and What Do They Mean?
Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) can feel like stepping into an entirely new world—and that’s part of what makes it so exciting. With its blend of physical challenge, mental strategy, and community, BJJ has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, build confidence, or develop self-defense skills, this art is for anyone willing to step onto the mat and give it a try.
One of the things that sets BJJ apart is its belt system. With only five adult ranks—White, Blue, Purple, Brown, and Black—the journey through the ranks is simple but deeply rewarding. Unlike martial arts with numerous belts handed out frequently, each promotion in BJJ is earned through time, effort, and growth. On average, the path to a black belt takes 8 to 12 years or more, but don’t let that intimidate you. The focus isn’t on how fast you move up—it’s on the experiences and lessons you gain along the way.
This guide breaks down each belt and what it means, offering insight into what makes BJJ such an incredible and transformative journey.
What Makes Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Belts Unique?
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, belts signify much more than just your rank. They’re a reflection of your time on the mat, the skills you’ve developed, and your ability to apply them. While promotions take time, they’re not about proving yourself to others—they’re about showing yourself what you’re capable of.
Each belt brings unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Progress may feel slow at times, but it’s steady. With every roll, every technique drilled, and every class attended, you’re moving forward. And the best part? You don’t have to do it alone. The BJJ community is there to support and guide you every step of the way.
The BJJ Belt System: Lessons from Each Rank
Here’s a closer look at what each belt means and the lessons it brings.
White Belt – Starting Your Journey
What It Represents:
The white belt is where everyone begins. It’s a symbol of curiosity, willingness, and the courage to try something new. You don’t need prior experience or special skills—just an open mind and a commitment to learning.
What to Focus On:
Learn the basics: how to move, defend, and escape from common positions.
Build good habits by focusing on proper technique over speed or strength.
Show up consistently. Progress starts with simply being there.
Encouragement:
Everyone starts at white belt. It’s a time for exploration, mistakes, and discovery. Don’t worry about “winning” or comparing yourself to others. Every class is a step forward, and with each roll, you’re getting better. At this point you’ve separated yourself from most of the world’s population by choosing your safety, physical and mental health as a priority.
Blue Belt – Building Connections
What It Represents:
Earning a blue belt is your first big milestone. It’s proof that you’ve learned the basics and committed to the process. At this stage, you start connecting the dots, turning individual techniques into a cohesive game.
What to Focus On:
Develop sequences by linking techniques together.
Identify areas where you feel strong and those that need improvement.
Keep showing up—this is where long-term growth begins.
Encouragement:
Blue belt is about building confidence and enjoying the process. Some days you’ll feel on top of the world; other days, you’ll feel stuck. That’s normal. Keep learning, keep experimenting, and remember: every black belt was once a blue belt, too.
Purple Belt – Becoming Well-Rounded
What It Represents:
Purple belt is a major step in your BJJ journey. At this stage, you’ve gained a deep understanding of the art, and your skills are versatile and well-rounded. Purple belts are often seen as leaders on the mat, capable of helping newer students while continuing to develop their own game.
What to Focus On:
Address any weaknesses, your strengths will have built themselves on their own. Ensure that your game has no glaring weaknesses.
Understand the principles behind techniques, not just how to execute them.
Embrace a mentorship role—it helps reinforce your own learning.
Encouragement:
Purple belt is about really starting to pay attention to the small things that set higher belts apart from lower belts. It’s also a time to mentor others and share what you’ve learned. Teaching is one of the most rewarding ways to grow as a practitioner and it will help you have a better understanding of the things you already do.
Brown Belt – Mastering the Details
What It Represents:
Brown belt is the final stage before black, representing advanced skill and understanding. By now, you’ve developed your personal style and are capable of adapting to almost any situation on the mat.
What to Focus On:
Sharpen your finishing techniques and transitions.
Pay attention to details—small adjustments make a big difference.
Continue evolving your game while mentoring others.
Encouragement:
At this level, your focus shifts to mastery. It’s about refining the details that elevate your skills to the highest level. Brown belt is also a time to enjoy how far you’ve come while staying motivated to keep pushing forward.
Black Belt – A New Chapter
What It Represents:
The black belt is a symbol of perseverance and growth. It’s an acknowledgment of your years of dedication, but it’s not the end of the journey. In many ways, it’s just the beginning of a new phase of learning and contribution.
What to Focus On:
Continue evolving with the sport. Stay open minded to new techniques and fads. Don’t let your style of Jiu Jitsu become obsolete.
Be creative in keeping yourself challenged on the mat. Create ways to put yourself at a deficit when training with people at a lower skill level than you.
Embrace the responsibility of being a role model within the community.
Encouragement:
Reaching black belt is a remarkable achievement, but it’s not about being perfect. It’s about staying curious, continuing to grow, and helping others on their own journeys.
The Rare Coral Belt
The coral belt is awarded to practitioners who have spent 30+ years as a black belt. It’s a testament to their lifelong dedication to BJJ. For most, the coral belt isn’t a goal—it’s an inspiration, reminding us of the potential for growth and impact over decades of training.
Practical Truths About BJJ
Progress Takes Time: Don’t rush the process. Every roll, every class, and every technique learned adds up over time.
Consistency Is Key: The best way to improve is to keep showing up, even on days when you feel stuck.
Mistakes Are Opportunities: Each tap or failed attempt is a chance to learn and grow.
You’re Not Alone: The BJJ community is built on support and camaraderie. Lean on your coaches and teammates—they’ve been where you are.
There’s Always More to Learn: No matter your rank, BJJ is a journey of continuous discovery.
FAQs About Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Belts
-
A: Most practitioners earn their black belt in 8–12 years, depending on consistency, competition experience, and personal goals.
-
A: Absolutely. BJJ is for everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or background. It’s all about showing up and learning at your own pace.
-
A: Many practitioners find the jump from blue to purple the most challenging. It requires developing a deeper understanding of the art and a more versatile game.
