Judo grading is recognized by a series of ranks (kyu) and corresponding belt colours. The student or judoka is promoted by being invited to test for the various kyus as determined by the technical directory of the Dojo.
Black belts are awarded Yudansha "dan" grades, according to the National Rules (Grading Syllabus) adapted from the Rules of the International Judo Federation and tested by appointed graders.
Judo Rankings in Canada
Coloured Belts - Mudansha | |
| Rokyu 6th Grade | |
Gokyu 5th Grade | |
Yonkyu 4th Grade | |
Sankyu 3rd Grade | |
Nikyu 2nd Grade | |
Ikkyu 1st Grade | |
White Belt
Yellow Belt
Orange Belt
Green Belt
Blue Belt
Brown BeltBlack Belts - Dans - Yudansha | |
 Black Belt | Shodan 1st Grade |
| Black Belt | Nidan 2nd Grade |
| Black Belt | Sandan 3rd Grade |
| Black Belt | Yondan 4th Grade |
| Black Belt | Godan 5th Grade |
Red and White Belt | Rokudan 6th Grade |
Red and White Belt | Shichidan 7th Grade |
Red and White Belt | Hachidan 8th Grade |
| Red or Black Belt | Kudan 9th Grade |
| Red or Black Belt | Red or Black Belt |
There is no set schedule of promotions but typically the Kelowna Judo Club will test twice a year, December (yellow & orange only), April (yellow through to brown).
The rate of progression will vary depending on the judoka and how they meet the following criteria:
- Age
- Regular attendance of weekly classes
- Attitude
- Tournament record
- Quality of techniques
- Quality of breakfalls
Knowledge of throws, hold downs, arm bars, chokes as they apply to the belt level as well as all techniques for preceding belts
Students and parents are encouraged to speak to your Sensei regarding testing preparedness and testing schedules individually. Ultimately it is the student's responsibility to learn the required techniques. A nominal testing fee may apply.
