Different Levels in Kung Fu

Kung Fu is an ancient style of Chinese fighting that can be traced back to the Xia Dynasty – over 4000 years ago.  It is believed to be developed by the Shaolin monks to protect themselves and to achieve strong mind and body discipline.

The techniques became popular and evolved into more refined systems of self-defense, hunting, military strategy, and fundamental tactics.  There are a variety of styles including exercises to mimic the movements of specific animals, philosophies, legends, or myths; others are more external, focusing more on improving muscle fitness and power.  There are a variety of styles in Kung Fu and each offers a different technique for self-defense, health, and self-improvement.

The two distinct categories are Northern and Southern style; Northern focusing more on kicking with Southern focusing more on hand techniques.  Within each category are the sub-categories of “Internal”, focusing on fluid and graceful power, and “External” spotlighting on developing the body to generate power.

Most everyone is aware of the coveted Black Belt level of achievement, but do not understand the levels that must be reached before achieving this height of discipline, control, skill, and power.  There are thousands of dojos around the world teaching the art; each with varying degrees of skills that are required to meet a precise level of expertise to be awarded a “Belt”.   Each level of attainment is identified by a specific color to the belt.

The different levels of achievement and belt colors are:

• White Belt – Initially earned to depict a solid foundation and understanding of the various techniques at a beginner’s level.  It includes stances, basic punches, and fundamental kicking methods.  Most people take about two months to achieve this level.

• Gold Belt – This is the next level that builds upon the basic skills and typically takes about three months to reach this level.

• Orange Belt – This level focuses on some advanced techniques including hand movements, blocking, punching, and next level of kicking.  This level takes about three months to earn.

• Green Belt – This level focuses on more challenging techniques including strength and speed.  This level usually takes four months to achieve.

• Blue Belt – In this level you are introduced to the use of weapons in fighting, which typically including a broadsword, and is much more vigorous.  An additional four months of training typically achieves this belt.

• Red Belt – This level exemplifies superior speed, power, and form when demonstrating the various techniques.  This level takes an additional six months of work.

• Black Belt – This is the advanced and final level exhibiting expertise in the skills learned.  Once previous belts are achieved, this level takes an additional year to achieve.

The term Kung Fu translates as “time and effort” and includes various levels of achievement which identifies the skills and proficiency of the students.  It takes months, or even years of dedication, practice, and discipline to reach this much desired highest level.  Kung Fu is not an attack-based skill, rather relying more on skill and swift movement to evade attack.  Achieving each level of understanding and expertise is rewarded with a specifically colored belt.

Photo Credits: bozzo2m

Originally posted 2010-04-19 16:55:11.

This post involves:

belt colors, black belt, dojos, gold belt, kung fu, military strategy, orange belt, shaolin monks, xia dynasty

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kung fu, Martial Arts

Posted by Martial Arts Karate Kung Fu on January 30, 2012 in kung fu, Martial Arts. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.