The Martial Arts method of evaluating merit and development is known as the belt system, with the color of the belt designating the various steps of attainment. The "KYU" grades from ninth (9th) Kyu through first (1st) Kyu descend and the "DAN" degrees from first (1st) Dan through tenth (10th) Dan ascend. The beginners are classified as ninth (9th) through fourth (4th) Kyu. Intermediates are classified as third (3rd), second (2nd), and first (1st) Kyu. Advanced are classified as first (1st) through third (3rd) Dan, he/she is then considered to be a true instructor, (earned the equivalent of a full Bachelor of Science degree). The fourth (4th) and fifth (5th) Dan levels are called "RENSHI" in Japanese meaning "senior expert"; fourth (4th) Dan is considered low master level and fifth (5th) Dan, high master level. Only when one attains the level of high master is he/she given the status of professional (earned the equivalent of full Master of Science degree). The sixth (6th), seventh (7th), and eighth (8th) Dan levels are all referred to as the "KYOSHI" rank. Literally translated, it means "Wizard" or "Very High Master" (these levels are commensurate with a Doctor of Philosophy degree). These degrees are awarded to the very few who have become wizard in a Martial Arts system with only outstanding contributors achieving such distinction. The ninth (9th) and tenth (10th) levels are referred to as the "HANSHI" rank and are the highest Grandmasters. At the time of this writing, there are not more than twenty (20) ninth (9th) and tenth (10th) degree Dans in all the Martial Arts systems and styles in the world. These special men attained the status of "Most High International Grandmaster." In the Martial Arts world they are indeed revered. It should be noted that the black belt takes hundreds and hundreds of totally dedicated practice hours just to reach the first dan level. The black belt is then awarded to honor the person who becomes expert in the martial arts. It is the ceremonial symbol of one's control over mind and body. To wear the black belt is the highest recognition of individual achievement.
Belt Ranking System Chart
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