The Karate Belt System in History
The karate belt (obi) is a very important part of the uniform (gi). It holds the garment in place and provides support to the middle (hara).
Traditions and Legends
It is believed that the origin of the belt goes back to the birthplace of the martial arts, the Shaolin Su Temple in China. The monk warriors wore a long wrap-around sash. The sash was used as a utility item rather than clothing. This is the reason we generally do not wash the belt. It is fine to wash a brand new belt to get out the loose dye, or if the belt becomes heavily soiled or filthy.
During the last century in Okinawa, modern Karate was developed. Practice took place in secret, usually in the dead of night. Through continued practice, the belt first took on a yellowish color as the student's sweat stained it. The belt was carried and stored in a cloth pouch hidden in the folded gi. In the hot, dark and humid environment, mold would form on the belt, giving it a greenish color. Then, after months and years of practicing, the student became strong enough to accept the teacher's more difficult techniques, which often meant being knocked or thrown onto the earthen floors. As dirt became ground into the greenish belts, they began turning brown. After many, many years of practice, the belts became so dark they were black.
In the early years, most martials arts used a series of belts graduating from white to yellow to green to brown and finally to black, emulating the original use discoloration. Later, other colors and markings were added to differentiate between the ranks and to provide motivation.
Traditional Belt Color Significance
| Belt Color | Significance | Meaning |
 |
Light |
The path is illuminated. Now you can see the way. |
 |
Growth |
Body and mind are growing in the way of the warrior (BUSHI-DO). |
 |
Maturity |
As in late autumn, our immature, undisciplined and inexperienced ways have died. |
 |
All Colors |
All student ranks have been passed. Expert of Adult level (Dan) is obtained. |
 |
Blood |
A synonym of "Ki" or "Chi", the vital life force. The Japanese Grandmaster Red Belt is a deeper shade than the red color of some Korean style student ranks. |
Mu-Gen Belt Traditions
Each school has its own way of tying and wearing the belt. In Mu-Gen, we use the crossover-in-rear method, which gives greater lower back support. The ends should hang evenly. Be sure there are no extra twists. It is part of the training to learn to follow directions and pay attention to details. These abilities are displayed by how we tie, wear and treat our belts.
Most traditional martial artists have high regard for their belts, reminding them of the determination and accomplishments of the ancient masters. Some believe the obi is to the karate-ka as the sword was to the samurai. It may be considered an extension of their spirits. To touch or handle someone else's belt without permission might be taken as a challenge or insult.
Wearing the uniform/belt in public is inappropriate. It may be construed as showing off or even as a challenge. Do not wear the jacket top or belt in public unless participating in an official function.
Remember to bring your belt to practice. Hang it up to dry if it is wet from sweat or fold neatly if not in use. Do not drag the belt on the floor. Wear your belt with confidence and dignity.
In our system, it is customary for the student to surrender the belt to the Sensei (instructor) if the student leaves the school, with the exception of the plain white belt or black belts, which may be retained by the practitioner. The concept behind this practice is that the belt belongs to the ryu (school) and the student represents the school's standards by the rank of belt worn. If a student's conduct or performance is not up to par, the student may be reduced in rank until such time as Shi-Han deems the student has earned back the right to wear the lost rank.
