Rank Promotion

Ranks in aikido are divided into two categories: kyu ranks and dan ranks. Kyu ranks encompass ranks up to but not including black belt. Dan ranks are levels of black belt. There are 6 kyu ranks and 9 dan ranks.

Following with the non-competitive philosophy of aikido, it is difficult to compare one's rank with another based on belt color because there are only three colors of belts. This emphasizes the pursuit of being the best that YOU can be, without comparing yourself to others.

The normal progression of rank is as follows:

Testing Requirements