Stripe and Belt Promotion Standards
Promotion Philosophy
At Acadia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, progression is structured, transparent, and earned over time. Stripes and belts serve different purposes, and promotions are based on consistent training and demonstrated growth.
Stripes: Tracking Consistency
Stripes recognize time on the mat and consistent attendance. They provide a clear, measurable way for students and parents to track progress.
Kids: White belts earn a stripe every 10 classes, Gray belts every 15, and Yellow through Green belts every 20.
Adults: White belts earn a stripe every 40 classes, higher belts every 80 classes.
Belts: Measuring Skill and Readiness
Promotion systems differ between our kids and adult programs.
In the kids program, stripes and belts are earned through consistent attendance and time on the mat. This provides a clear and structured progression that children can easily understand. There is no formal testing required, and belts are awarded once the required class count for each level is reached.
In the adult program, stripes track mat time, but belt promotions are based on a coach’s evaluation of a student’s skill, understanding, and performance in live training.
Adult White belts earn four stripes at 40 classes per stripe (160 classes total). After the fourth stripe, students enter a period of continued development and evaluation before promotion to blue belt.
At blue belt and above, students earn four stripes at 80 classes per stripe (320 classes total) before entering a similar evaluation period for the next belt.
This approach reflects the different ways children and adults learn and develop in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Our Approach
We focus on steady, consistent growth. Students progress through participation, practice, and problem-solving on the mat. Promotions reflect long-term development and readiness, keeping the focus on learning and improvement rather than testing or performance anxiety.
Kids (4-15)
White Belt - 50 Classes - 10 Classes Per Stripe
Grey Belts - 75 Classes - 15 Classes Per Stripe
Yellow-Green - 100 Classes - 20 Classes Per Stripe
Adults (16 +)
White Belt - ~200 Classes - 40 Classes Per Stripe
Blue Belt - ~400 Classes - 80 Classes Per Stripe
Purple Belt - ~400 Classes - 80 Classes Per Stripe
Brown Belt - ~400 Classes - 80 Classes Per Stripe
Black Belt – Stripes Awarded by Time in Rank
1st–3rd Degree – 3 Years Between Degrees
3rd–6th Degree – 5 Years Between Degrees
6th–8th Degree – 7 Years Between Degrees
8th-9th Degree – 10 Years
