One of the most rewarding aspects of martial arts training is seeing your progress over time. The coloured belt system provides a simple way of recognising that development and celebrating important milestones in your journey.
At London Kempo, our aim is to ensure that promotions are both fair and meaningful, while maintaining the high technical standards for which the club is known.
Coloured Belts
All new members begin by wearing a White Belt.
There are three student grades:
- Yellow Belt – Novice Student
- Green Belt – Intermediate Student
- Brown Belt – Advanced Student
Beyond Brown Belt, students may be considered for promotion to Black Belt, recognising a high level of technical competence together with a deep understanding of Kempo’s principles.
A student of average ability who trains twice each week, attends the appropriate classes for their grade, and practises consistently can typically expect to spend around three to six months at White Belt, followed by approximately two years at each of the coloured belt grades. However, everyone progresses at their own pace, and promotions are based on demonstrated development rather than time served.
Our Approach to Promotion
Progress in Kempo is about much more than learning a list of techniques.
While students are expected to learn the syllabus for each grade, instructors also assess the qualities that make techniques effective in practice. These include posture, balance, movement, distancing, timing, control, awareness, decision-making, and the ability to adapt techniques to different situations and opponents.
The purpose of a belt is not to show how good you are—it is simply to indicate where you are on your learning journey.
Tabs (Belt Stripes)
Progress through the coloured belt grades is recognised by the award of tabs (belt stripes).
Tabs are awarded through continuous assessment during regular training sessions. Rather than preparing for a single examination, students are encouraged to focus on consistent attendance, thoughtful practice and gradual improvement. This allows instructors to observe technical development over time and helps students build a deeper understanding of the art.
Students may be awarded up to three tabs on each coloured belt before being invited to their next grading.
There is no substitute for time spent in the dojo. Students who train regularly and consistently generally make the fastest progress.
Nobody Is Overlooked
Instructors regularly review every student’s progress, considering both their technical development and their attendance.
You do not need to ask to be promoted or remind instructors that you are ready. Every member is reviewed, and no student will be overlooked.
Rather than focusing on your next belt, focus on becoming a better martial artist. Promotions will follow naturally.
Gradings
Once a student has been awarded three tabs, they will normally be invited to attend the next grading.
Gradings are usually held twice each year, with one grading in the Summer and one in the Winter.
A grading typically includes:
- Demonstration of syllabus techniques
- Practical application of techniques
- Pressure drills
- An assessment of overall technical ability and understanding
Following a successful grading, the new belt is presented at the grading event.
Promotion to Black Belt is considerably more demanding and requires consistently high technical ability together with a deep conceptual understanding of Kempo.
Grading Fees
London Kempo does not charge for:
- Belt promotions
- Grading certificates
- Belts
We believe that promotions should recognise achievement, not provide a source of income for the club.
A Final Thought
Belts are an important part of martial arts, but they are not the goal of training.
True progress is measured by the quality of your technique, your understanding of the art, your attitude towards others, and your commitment to continual improvement.
Train consistently, enjoy the journey, and let the belts take care of themselves.
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