Belt System
The Tang Soo Do belt system represents a structured progression of skill, knowledge, and personal development. Each belt colour symbolises a student’s journey through the martial art, from beginner to master level. At Lancashire Tang Soo Do, we follow the traditional Korean ranking system that has been passed down through generations.
Our Belt System Explained:
The Gup System (Coloured Belts)
In Tang Soo Do, students progress through a series of coloured belts known as “Gup” ranks. The Gup system works in reverse numerical order, with 10th Gup being the first beginner rank and 1st Gup representing the most advanced colour belt level before black belt.
White Belt & Yellow Stripe Belt (10th & 9th Gup) – Purity and Beginning
The white belt represents purity, innocence, and the blank canvas of a new student. At this stage, students learn the fundamental stances, basic blocks, punches, and kicks that form the foundation of all Tang Soo Do techniques.
Orange Belt (8th Gup) – The Sun Rising
As the sun rises to bring light, the orange belt symbolises the beginning of enlightenment. Students at this level start to understand how techniques connect and begin developing coordination and balance.
Green Belt (6th & 5th & 4th Gup) – Growth
Like a plant growing towards the sky, the green belt represents significant growth in technique and understanding. Students develop more complex combinations and begin learning intermediate forms (hyung).
Red Belt (3rd Gup & 2nd & 1st Gup & 1st Gup Midterm) – Danger and Warning
Red represents danger – both to opponents and to oneself if techniques are performed incorrectly. At this advanced level, students possess significant skill and power, requiring increased discipline and control.
Midnight Blue Belt (1st Dan) – The Sky at Dusk
The dark blue belt represents the sky as night approaches, symbolising the student’s journey nearing completion of the colour belt ranks. This is an intensive preparation period for black belt, where students refine all previously learned material.
The Dan System (Black Belts)
Black Belt (1st Dan and above) – Maturity and Mastery
The black belt represents the highest level of technical achievement, but in Tang Soo Do philosophy, earning your first degree black belt (1st Dan) is just the beginning of true learning. It signifies maturity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to the art.
Black belts continue to progress through additional Dan ranks (1st Dan through 9th Dan), with each level requiring years of dedicated practice, teaching, and contribution to the martial arts community.
What Each Belt Requires:
• Demonstrated proficiency in forms (hyung)
• Knowledge of self-defence techniques (ho sin sul)
• Understanding of breaking techniques (kyuk pa)
• Sparring ability (dae ryun)
• Knowledge of Korean terminology
• Demonstration of proper martial arts etiquette and philosophy
Progression Through the Ranks
Advancement through the belt system at Lancashire Tang Soo Do is earned through dedication, consistent training, and demonstration of technical proficiency. Students typically test every 3 months for colour belt ranks, with testing periods becoming longer as ranks advance.
Gradings are comprehensive examinations where students demonstrate everything they’ve learned up to that point, not just the requirements for their current rank. This ensures that techniques are retained and continuously refined.
The Journey Beyond Technique
While the belt system provides a visible measure of technical progress, Tang Soo Do training develops far more than physical skills. Each rank teaches:
• Discipline and self-control
• Respect for instructors and fellow students
• Perseverance through challenges
• Confidence and self-esteem
• Focus and mental clarity
• Leadership and teaching abilities
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Every black belt began as a white belt. Your journey through the Tang Soo Do belt system starts with a single class. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have previous martial arts experience, our instructors will guide you through each step of your development.
Contact us today to book your first class and begin your progression through the ranks of traditional Tang Soo Do martial arts.