The Path to Mastery: Adult Promotion Requirements at Lineage BJJ®
In the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, there is nothing more rewarding than earning a new stripe or belt. But these promotions don't come easy. At Lineage BJJ®, we have a structured and systematic approach to promotions. This ensures that each student is able to build upon the foundation they have learned and continue to grow in their BJJ journey.
Stripe and Belt Promotions in Lineage BJJ® Adult Program
In our Adult Lineage BJJ® program, promotions are primarily based on two factors: minimum time in the rank and minimum number of classes attended.
Minimum Requirements for Stripe Promotions at Lineage BJJ®
White Belt:
Minimum Time in Rank for Stripes: 3 months
Minimum Number of Classes for Stripes: 40 classes
Minimum Time in Rank for Belt Promotion: 1 year
Blue, Purple, and Brown Belts:
Minimum Time in Rank for Stripes: 9 months
Minimum Number of Classes for Stripes: 80 classes
Minimum Time in Rank for Belt Promotion: 3 years
Please note that these are the basic requirements, and other factors such as technique and dedication may also be considered for promotions.
Traditional Recognized belts in BJJ (Note: IBJJF reticently added a Red/White Belt for 8th Degree)
Belt Promotions
For belt promotions, in addition to the minimum time held in one's current belt, one must also pass a test. This test lasts for one hour and consists of three segments: 20 minutes of self-defense testing, 20 minutes of position grappling, and 20 minutes of fight simulation (based on self-defense). It is vital to note that all tests and belts are free of charge.
Beyond the Basics: Black Belt and Higher Promotions
Promotions to black belt and beyond are special. For all promotions to black belt and higher, students have the option to either test directly with Grandmaster Relson Gracie or in front of a group of Lineage BJJ® black belts. The main difference lies in the certificate they will receive. Also, future promotions as a black belt will follow different systems depending on who conducted the initial black belt test.
If tested with Grandmaster Relson Gracie, the following timeline is followed for black belt promotions:
Black Belt Test: minimum of 10 years training in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
Black Belt to 1st Degree: minimum of 2 years as a black belt
1st to 5th Degree: minimum of two years at each degree
5th to 7th Degree: minimum of 5 years at each degree
Time in each degree may vary and senior-level promotions are at Relson’s discretion. However, promotion to Red/Black belt takes a minimum of 20 years of active training/teaching as a black belt.
7th Degree to 8th Degree (Coral belt): minimum of 2 years for promotion from 7th to 8th degree coral belt.
8th to 9th Degree (Grandmaster status – Red Belt): minimum of 18 years for the degree promotion
10th Degree: Reserved to honor the creators of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
If the student opts to test in front of a group of Lineage BJJ™ black belts, future promotions will follow the recommendations of the IBJJF, even though Lineage BJJ™ does not necessarily agree with the IBJJF’s belt promotion system.
The True Meaning of a Stripe or Belt
At Lineage BJJ®, a stripe or belt gets its meaning from the work put into attaining it. Each promotion is a major achievement that should be seen with honor. Our students earn their ranks through good technique, practice, and dedication.
Honoring the Traditions
Lineage BJJ® holds immense respect for Grandmaster Helio Gracie. It is essential to understand that Lineage BJJ® does not follow the IBJJF’s belt promotion system (time requirements) out of respect for the traditional values of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as pioneered by the Gracie family from white to black belt.
Conclusion
Lineage BJJ® provides a rigorous, structured, and highly respected promotion system for adults training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. With the commitment to honor the traditional values of BJJ, the academy sets high standards for promotions to ensure that the belts and stripes earned are a true reflection of skill, dedication, and understanding of the art.
Whether it is the basic belts or the revered black belt and beyond, each promotion is earned through relentless practice, adherence to time in rank, and class attendance.
Moreover, the option to test directly with Grandmaster Relson Gracie or in front of a group of Lineage BJJ® black belts for black belt promotions adds a layer of prestige and honor, acknowledging the lineage and tradition that is at the core of Lineage BJJ®.
In Lineage BJJ®, every stripe and belt is more than just a rank – it is a testament to the hard work, perseverance, and respect for the martial art that has positively transformed the lives of countless practitioners around the world.
