It’s Not All About the Belt

Let’s be honest, when most people start Jiu Jitsu, they’re at least a little curious about the belts. How long until I get a stripe? How do promotions work? When can I be a blue belt?

At Tradition Jiu Jitsu Academy, we believe in celebrating progress, but we also remind our students that BJJ is a marathon not a sprint. Understanding how the belt system works can help you (or your child) enjoy the journey without getting caught up in chasing rank.

The Basics of the Jiu Jitsu Belt System

Unlike some martial arts where belts are awarded quickly, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu takes a more measured and meaningful approach.

Adult Belt Order:

  • White
  • Blue
  • Purple
  • Brown
  • Black

Each adult belt can also earn up to 4 stripes before progressing to the next rank. Stripes signify improvement in skill, consistency, and application.

Kids Belt Order (Ages 4–15):

Children follow a separate progression that includes colors like:

  • White
  • Gray
  • Yellow
  • Orange
  • Green

Each with stripe progressions in between

Kids are not eligible for blue belt until age 16, when they can begin the adult system.

What Do Stripes Mean?

Stripes are a coach’s way of saying: “You’re getting better. Keep going.”

We award stripes at Tradition Jiu Jitsu Academy based on:

  • Technical improvement
  • Consistency in attendance
  • Behavior, effort, and attitude
  • Ability to apply techniques in live training

A stripe isn’t just about “winning” rolls—it’s about growing as a martial artist.

🎯 Example: A student who shows up regularly, helps new teammates, and steadily improves technique may earn a stripe before someone who’s sporadically training even if they are more athletic.

How Often Are Promotions Given?

There’s no fixed schedule, and that’s intentional.

Some students earn a stripe every few months. Others take longer and that’s okay.

At Tradition Jiu Jitsu Academy:

  • Kids are assessed every few months as a class
  • Adults are evaluated individually based on consistency and maturity
  • Promotions may happen in small ceremonies, surprise moments, or in front of peers

We never want rank to become a distraction from the real goal: learning the art.

How We Promote Kids vs. Adults

For Kids:

We use stripes and belts to:

  • Encourage effort and discipline
  • Reinforce focus and respect
  • Reward consistent participation

But we’re careful not to over-inflate expectations. BJJ teaches that effort matters more than outcome, and progress is earned, not given.

We also teach kids that it’s okay to not be first. Every child develops at their own pace, some grasp techniques fast, others build confidence over time. We honor all of it.

For Adults:

Promotions are earned through:

  • Mat time (consistent attendance over months and years)
  • Technical knowledge
  • Ability to apply techniques in live sparring
  • Humility, attitude, and team contribution

Adult belts are serious milestones, not participation rewards. When you see a purple, brown, or black belt, you’re looking at years of sweat, mistakes, and improvement.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Black Belt?

A very common question and the honest answer is: about 8 to 12 years, depending on consistency and commitment.

Unlike other martial arts, BJJ takes its time:

  • Blue belt: ~1–2 years
  • Purple belt: ~4–5 years
  • Brown belt: ~6–7 years
  • Black belt: ~8–12 years

But here’s the thing: you’re learning real skills the entire time. You don’t need to be a black belt to defend yourself, coach others, or feel confident on the mat.

Comparing Progress: The Fastest Way to Burn Out

It’s easy to look around and think:

  • “Why did they get a stripe before me?”
  • “I’ve been training longer than him!”
  • “My kid hasn’t been promoted yet—should I be worried?”

The truth? Everyone’s journey is different.

Some students have prior grappling experience. Others train more days per week. Some kids are shy at first and take longer to engage.

At Tradition Jiu Jitsu Academy, we reinforce internal growth over external comparison. You’re not in competition with your teammates you’re improving with them.

Why We Don’t Promote Based on Trophies

Some schools award belts based on competition wins. That’s not our style.

Yes, competing is valuable—but promotions should reflect:

  • Understanding of the art
  • Respect and attitude
  • Application of techniques—not just aggression or athleticism

We love seeing students test themselves at tournaments, but your rank at our academy comes from the mats you train on every week, not the medals on your shelf.

How to Help Your Child Understand Progress

If you’re a parent, you might feel unsure about how to explain stripes or belts to your child.

Here’s what we suggest:

  • Emphasize effort over outcome (“You tried your best today—that’s what matters.”)
  • Praise attitude and respect, not just performance
  • Avoid comparing them to other kids
  • Remind them that growth is personal—and takes time

You can also talk to our instructors. We’re happy to offer feedback on how your child is doing and how you can support them at home.

Progress Without Promotion Still Counts

Some of the biggest breakthroughs in Jiu Jitsu come long before a new stripe or belt.

Maybe you:

  • Survived a roll with someone who used to dominate you
  • Hit a sweep you’ve been working on for months
  • Helped a new student feel welcome
  • Felt more confident during a tough class

All of that is progress. And we recognize it even if it doesn’t come with a stripe just yet.

The Belt Is Just the Beginning

As the saying goes, a black belt is a white belt who never quit.

The real gift of Jiu Jitsu isn’t the rank, it’s the:

  • Confidence you build
  • Relationships you form
  • Lessons you learn about discipline and humility

At Tradition Jiu Jitsu Academy, we promote students who embody the spirit of the art, not just the moves. Whether you’re training for fun, self-defense, or competition, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Stay Focused on the Journey

Belts and stripes matter but they’re not everything.

What truly counts is showing up, staying humble, and helping your teammates grow. Trust the process, stay consistent, and enjoy the ride. Promotions will come when they’re meant to.

Ready to start your journey or bring your child into the fold? Learn more about our Jiu-Jitsu Classes in Port St. Lucie and get started with your first week free at Tradition Jiu Jitsu Academy.