Interested in knowing more about our technical grading system? Information and documents on the processes of the grading system can be found below.
Mon Grades
Our Mon Grades system is a instantly recognised feature of judo with promotion to different coloured belts based on technical ability, knowledge and understanding. Whilst there is no contest requirement in the Mon Grade system, structured randori is introduced for higher grades.
The Mon Grade system is delivered at 8 to 16 year olds and follows on from the Dragons grades for 5 to 7 year olds. Through regular training and study, each player should be able to complete the Mon syllabus by the age of 16 or sooner.
As judoka progress through the Mon Grade system the practical situation and examination process in which they demonstrate the required techniques becomes more stringent. Gradings are usually carried out within the club the judoka is based, by a Welsh Judo licensed Coach. There are 18 different grades contained within the Mon system, with each grade requiring a different coloured belt and/or belt tag(s).
The Kyu Grade system (14+)
As with the Mon grade system, the Kyu Grade system is a distinctive feature of judo which provides promotion to different coloured belts based on technical ability, knowledge and understanding. There is no contest requirement in the Kyu Grade system although progressively structured randori, highlighting open skills is included.
The Kyu Grade system is provided for judoka 14 years upwards, and players aged between 14 and 17 who already hold a Mon Grade and are transferring to a senior grade. Any Judoka over the age of 18 will automatically start on the Kyu Grade system.
What are the belts in the Kyu Grade system?
There are 6 different grades contained within the Kyu system, which each grade requiring a different coloured belt. Once the Kyu Grade Syllabus has been completed, Judoka are eligible to train for their Dan Grades through the Gokyo technical system.
Dan Grades
The Dan Grades system is a distinctive feature of judo with promotion to different ranks based on a variety of different pathways and achievements. Achieving a Dan Grade is one of the highest qualifications available to individuals involved in the sport of judo.
The Dan Grade system is provided for judoka who are 15 years of age and older who have completed the Kyu Grade system. For that examination players are required to demonstrate superiority over a variety of other players competing at the same level. This ensures that successive Dan Grades up to 5thDan are populated by increasingly skilful players.
For grades higher than 5thDan judoka wishing to move up a grade must apply to British Judo. A decision is then made on their application by the British Judo Board of Directors.
What are the belts in the Dan Grade system?
There are 10 different grades contained within the Grades system, which represented by 3 different coloured belts. British Judo publish a list of individuals that have achieved a Dan Grading.