GRADing

Grading & Progression in Judo

At Northampton Judo Club, Belts Are Earned — Not Given

We believe every belt (Obi) should be a reflection of your effort, discipline, and progress.
That’s why we don’t hand out grades lightly.

Each step forward represents:

• Hard work on the tatami & consistent class attendance

• Dedication to learning and improvement

• Ability to apply techniques in both training and competition

When you earn a new belt at NJC, you’ve genuinely earned it, and that’s something to be proud of!

We don’t just build champions — We build Judoka!

Know Your Judo

At NJC, we expect every Judoka to know the syllabus for their current grade, and to retain full knowledge of all previous belts they have earned.

Progression in Judo isn’t just about learning new techniques; it’s about building a complete foundation. A black belt is not just someone who knows the black belt syllabus; it’s someone who has truly mastered everything that came before.

Knowing your full grading journey shows respect for the art and the learning process, and ensures you are always prepared to demonstrate your skill and understanding.

Support for Your Progression

We dedicate the final 30 minutes of each adult class for Judoka to focus on their grading syllabus.

Whether you’re preparing for your next belt or reinforcing previous material, you can use this time to train with partners and coaches who are there to support your progress.

Use it wisely, consistent revision and technical focus are key to becoming a well-rounded Judoka.

Grading day at NJC

At Northampton Judo Club, we do things a little differently.

When you earn your next grade, we don’t just hand you a belt; we take the time to personally tie your new obi around your waist and congratulate you on your hard-earned progression.

It’s a moment of recognition, respect, and shared pride in your Judo journey.

Each belt at NJC is more than a colour; it’s a symbol of your dedication, effort, and growth.

grading syllabus:

Sho Grades (Ages 5–7) – Learning Through Play

The Sho Awards are the perfect introduction to Judo for young children. There are 9 fun, progressive milestones that focus on:

• Movement and coordination

• Basic techniques

• Confidence and teamwork

• Safety and discipline

These awards are designed to be playful, engaging, and a positive first step in a Judoka’s journey.

Mon Grades (Ages 8–17) – Progressing with Purpose

For juniors aged 8–17, the Mon Grade system provides a structured path through:

• Technical skills in standing and groundwork

• Basic Japanese terminology

• Etiquette, discipline, and safe practice

The Mon Grade belts are:

• Red

• Yellow

• Orange

• Green

• Blue

• Brown (with up to 3 tabs per grade)

Each step is earned through club-based assessments, which include demonstration, practice, and understanding.

Kyu Grades (Ages 16+ and Adults) – Striving for Mastery

Adult beginners and seniors follow the Kyu Grade system, which begins at white belt and leads up to brown belt, before attempting black belt (Dan grades). Kyu grades develop:

• Advanced technique and combination work

• Tachi-waza (standing techniques) and Ne-waza (groundwork)

• Randori (sparring) and competition readiness

• Kata (formal techniques for higher grades)

The adult Kyu grades are:

• 6th Kyu – White

• 5th Kyu – Yellow

• 4th Kyu – Orange

• 3rd Kyu – Green

• 2nd Kyu – Blue

• 1st Kyu – Brown

Dan Grade Expectations at NJC

At Northampton Judo Club, Dan grades are never given — they are earned.

Our black belts represent years of discipline, technical excellence, competitive experience, and alignment with the Judo moral code.

To be considered for Dan grade, students must demonstrate:

• Technical proficiency across a broad syllabus

• Regular competition success or significant contribution to the sport

• Consistent commitment to training, learning, and supporting others

• Understanding of Kata, theory, and the responsibilities of being a black belt

We are proud of every black belt earned on our tatami, each one a reflection of true dedication, character, and Judo spirit.

Adult Grading at Northampton Judo Club

Gradings at NJC are earned through a combination of attendance, technical demonstrations, randori (sparring), and theoretical understanding of Judo.

From green belt upwards, all our students are expected to compete regularly, ensuring they are battle-tested and fully prepared to earn every step of their journey toward black belt.

We believe in producing Judoka who can both demonstrate their skills and prove them on the mat.