The BJJ belt system explained simply: colored belts show your stage of growth in jiu-jitsu, and stripes show progress within each belt. When you start Brazilian jiu-jitsu, the belts around the room are one of the first things you notice. They are more than part of the uniform. They stand for time on the mat, technique, and character.
At Brazil 021 Chicago, we use belts and stripes to recognize effort, consistency, and growth so students can see their progress clearly over time. This guide covers what each adult belt means, how the kids belt system works, and how promotions are decided. If your main question is timing, our guide on how long to get a blue belt in BJJ covers that in detail.
What Belts and Stripes Mean in BJJ
Unlike some martial arts that use formal belt tests, BJJ promotions come from your instructor’s overall evaluation. Each belt reflects a stage of maturity that includes:
- Technical knowledge of movements, submissions, and escapes
- Practical application of techniques during live training
- Mat time and steady effort over the years
- Character, including respect, humility, and perseverance
Stripes mark progress within a belt. Each adult belt can carry up to four stripes, and each one tells a student they are getting closer to the next level.
The Adult BJJ Belt System, White to Black
Brazil 021 follows the internationally recognized adult belt order:
White belt: The starting point. You learn how to move, control, and defend, with safety and a strong foundation first. Most new adults begin in our beginner BJJ classes in Chicago.
Blue belt: The first major step. Blue belts understand the fundamentals, can defend themselves, and start applying sweeps and submissions with intention.
Purple belt: An advanced stage. Purple belts link techniques more fluidly, develop their own style, and understand strategy on a deeper level.
Brown belt: The last step before black. Brown belts have refined technique, sound strategy, and maturity. Many begin helping newer students learn. Purple and brown belts spend much of their time in our All Levels & Advanced classes.
Black belt: A mark of expertise and dedication. It represents mastery of the basics, advanced technical skill, and often leadership in the academy. Growth within black belt is marked by degrees. Our co-founder Andre “Negão” Terencio was promoted to 6th-degree black belt in April 2026, and co-founder Hannette Staack is a 5th-degree black belt.
Coral and red belts: These honor decades of dedication to teaching and spreading jiu-jitsu, and only a small number of people in the world hold them.
The Kids BJJ Belt System
Children follow their own belt path, designed to keep them motivated and to recognize progress more often. The kids system at Brazil 021 includes belts such as:
- White
- Grey
- Yellow
- Orange
- Green
Each color has stripes that reward steady growth. Kids promotions are based on technique, discipline, and maturity, with age also considered. Our kids jiu-jitsu classes in Chicago are split into Kids Class 1 (ages 3 to 6) and Kids Class 2 (ages 7 to 12), so every child trains with peers at a similar stage.
How BJJ Promotions Work at Brazil 021
At Brazil 021, promotions are earned through merit and consistency, not through tests. Our world champion BJJ instructors look at:
- Technical ability: Can the student apply what they have learned effectively and safely?
- Consistency: Do they come to class regularly and put in time on the mat?
- Sparring: Are they improving against training partners while showing control and respect?
- Attitude and character: Do they show humility, respect, and teamwork?
The head instructor makes the final call based on long-term observation, and promotions are given during class in front of your teammates.
Common Myths About BJJ Promotions (and What Really Matters)
- Time alone does not equal promotion. Years on the mat without progress are not enough.
- Competition results are not required. Medals are great, but promotions reflect your overall development.
- There are no shortcuts. At Brazil 021, the only way to a new belt is through your work on the mat.
- Progress is personal. Everyone moves at their own pace, and comparing yourself to others rarely helps.
Promotions are exciting, but the real reward is the journey. Every class builds knowledge, resilience, and friendships. Some months progress feels slow. With patience and consistency, growth always comes. Many students find that the mental benefits of jiu-jitsu show up long before the next belt does.
FAQ: BJJ Belt System
How many belts are there in BJJ?
Adults progress through five main belts: white, blue, purple, brown, and black. Coral and red belts come after many decades at black belt. Kids have their own set of belts, including grey, yellow, orange, and green.
How many stripes are on a BJJ belt?
Each adult belt below black can have up to four stripes. Black belts advance by degrees instead.
Are there belt tests at Brazil 021?
No. Promotions are based on your instructors’ long-term view of your technique, consistency, sparring, and character.
Start Your Belt Journey
Every black belt started as a white belt on their first day. Book a free trial class at our academy on W Chicago Ave and take your first step on the mat.
