The WTF/WT Taekwondo Belt System
Taekwondo uses a colored belt system (geup ranks) that progresses from white belt through black belt (dan). The specific colors, number of ranks, and time requirements vary between WT (World Taekwondo), ITF (International Taekwondo Federation), and independent schools.
Standard WT Belt Order
White Belt (10th Geup): The starting point. Students learn basic stances, blocks, and kicks.
Yellow Belt (9th Geup): The first rank earned through testing. Students learn the first poomsae (form).
Green Belt (7th Geup): Students are beginning to develop real technique with more power and combination work.
Blue Belt (5th Geup): More complex kicks and combinations are introduced.
Red Belt (3rd Geup): Red symbolises danger. Advanced poomsae and sparring are emphasised.
Black Belt (1st Dan): Students under age 15 receive Poom (junior black belt) rather than full Dan. Full Dan is awarded at age 15+.
How Long Does Each Belt Take?
At 2 classes per week, most students spend 2–4 months at each colored belt. Total time from white belt to 1st Dan black belt is typically 3–5 years with consistent training.
ITF Belt Order
ITF taekwondo uses a similar progression: White → Yellow → Yellow-Stripe → Green → Green-Stripe → Blue → Blue-Stripe → Red → Red-Stripe → Black.
Related Reading
- Taekwondo vs Karate: Which Is Right for You?
- Taekwondo Uniform Guide
- Martial Arts Belt Colors Explained
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