Family Martial Arts Centres

Category: Graduation

  • The Belt Colour Order in Tang Soo Do: Tradition, Progression, and Symbolism

    The Belt Colour Order in Tang Soo Do: Tradition, Progression, and Symbolism

    Understanding the Significance of Each Belt and Its Seasonal Connection

    Tang Soo Do, a traditional Korean martial art, is renowned not only for its graceful techniques and rigorous discipline but also for the rich symbolism embedded within its ranking system. Central to this system is the progression of belt colours, each representing a stage of personal growth and mastery, and each associated with a particular season, mirroring the cyclical nature of learning and life itself. This article will explore the belt colour order in Tang Soo Do, detailing the Gup (student) and Dan (black belt) ranks, and will delve into the symbolic meanings and seasonal significance of the White, Green, Red, and Black belts.

    The Structure of the Tang Soo Do Belt System

    Tang Soo Do utilizes a coloured belt system to denote a student’s rank and progression. The journey begins with the humble White Belt, symbolizing a blank slate and the start of a new adventure, and ascends through various colours until reaching the esteemed Midnight Blue or Black Belt—signifying mastery and the responsibility of guiding others.

    Understanding Gup and Dan Ranks

    The ranking system in Tang Soo Do is separated into two main categories:

    • Gup Ranks: Also known as “grades,” these are the coloured belt levels for students who have not yet achieved black belt status. The Gup ranks are counted in descending order from 10th Gup (beginner) to 1st Gup (advanced student, just before Black Belt).
    • Dan Ranks: These refer to black belt ranks, beginning with 1st Dan (the first degree of black belt, often signified with a Midnight Blue Belt in some Tang Soo Do traditions, rather than black).

    The Belt Colour Order

    The standard sequence of belts and their corresponding Gup and Dan rankings in Tang Soo Do is as follows:

    • 10th Gup – White Belt
    • 9th Gup – Yellow Belt
    • 8th Gup – Orange Belt
    • 7th Gup – Blue Belt
    • 6th Gup – Green Belt
    • 5th Gup – Green Belt (with 1 Blue Tag)
    • 4th Gup – Green Belt (with 2 Blue Tags)
    • 3rd Gup – Red Belt
    • 2nd Gup – Red Belt (with 1 Blue Tag)
    • 1st Gup – Red Belt (with 2 Blue Tags)
    • 1st Dan – Midnight Blue Belt (Black Belt)

    Each belt represents more than just technical ability; it embodies an individual’s journey, struggles, and achievements within the art.

    The Symbolism of Belt Colours and the Seasons

    In Tang Soo Do, belt colours are imbued with symbolic meaning. The progression through these colours is often likened to the passage of the seasons, representing personal transformation and the rhythm of growth. Here, we explore the symbolism and the seasonal links of White, Green, Red, and Black (Midnight Blue) belts:

    White Belt: The Season of Winter

    White is the colour of purity, innocence, and new beginnings. In the context of Tang Soo Do, the White Belt is worn by the beginner—the student who arrives with an open mind, ready to absorb the teachings of the art.

    • Seasonal Association: White is linked to Winter. Just as winter covers the earth with a blanket of snow, concealing the potential of the seeds below, so too does the White Belt student possess untapped potential, hidden beneath the surface.
    • Significance: Winter is a time of stillness and reflection, a period where growth occurs out of sight. White Belt signifies humility, the willingness to learn, and the patience required for true progress. The student is in a state of receptivity, much like the earth awaiting the warmth of spring to awaken new life.

    Green Belt: The Season of Spring

    Green represents growth, energy, and renewal. It is the colour of Spring, the season when the world awakens from the dormancy of winter and bursts forth in vibrant life.

    • Seasonal Association: Spring’s green is the colour of new plants and leaves, symbolizing the development and expansion of skills in the student who wears the Green Belt.
    • Significance: The Green Belt stage is marked by rapid progress and visible improvement. Just as the sprouting plant pushes upward, the student refines techniques and gains confidence. It is a time to nurture one’s abilities, absorb knowledge, and prepare for future challenges.

    Red Belt: The Season of Summer

    Red is the colour of fire, passion, and intensity. It is associated with Summer—the height of energy, the season of the blazing sun and flourishing life.

    • Seasonal Association: Red, like the summer sun, represents a period of great vitality and heat. The Red Belt student is nearing the peak of their journey, displaying a high degree of proficiency and determination.
    • Significance: Summer is a time of abundance and activity, but also of challenges. The Red Belt student must channel their energy wisely, avoiding recklessness and working to master both body and mind. Their techniques are powerful, yet must be tempered with control and responsibility.

    Black Belt (Midnight Blue): The Season of Autumn

    In many Tang Soo Do schools, the traditional Black Belt is replaced by the Midnight Blue Belt, representing depth and the infinite potential of the night sky. Whether Black or Midnight Blue, this belt stands for maturity, mastery, and the responsibility to help others.

    • Seasonal Association: Black or deep blue is associated with Autumn, the season of harvest and transformation. It is the time when the fruits of one’s labour are gathered, and the cycle nears its completion.
    • Significance: The Black Belt is not an endpoint but a new beginning—the autumn of the student’s first cycle and the winter of their next. It signifies wisdom, self-mastery, and the obligation to share knowledge with others. The darkness of the belt reflects the depth of understanding acquired, as well as the humility to continue learning.

    The Deeper Meaning of the Journey

    The colour progression in Tang Soo Do is more than a visual marker of achievement; it is a metaphor for the natural cycles of growth, challenge, and renewal found in all aspects of life. Each belt and its associated season serve as a reminder to respect where we have come from, embrace where we are, and look forward to what lies ahead.

    • The White of Winter teaches us to begin with humility and openness.
    • The Green of Spring encourages us to nurture our skills and stretch beyond our comfort zones.
    • The Red of Summer challenges us to focus our energy and strive for excellence with integrity.
    • The Black/Blue of Autumn inspires us to gather the fruits of our efforts and prepare to share our understanding with the next generation.

    Conclusion

    To study Tang Soo Do is to walk a path defined by discipline, respect, and continuous growth—a journey beautifully illustrated through the order and symbolism of its belts. The colours worn by practitioners are not merely badges of ability, but vibrant expressions of the personal and philosophical transformation that occurs at every stage. Each season, each belt, is a step on the never-ending cycle of learning, reminding us that the martial artist’s journey is as boundless as nature itself.

  • Graduation 17th August 2025

    Martial Arts Graduation: A Day of Achievement

    Celebrating Our Students’ Dedication and Progress

    Prepare to witness an inspiring event as we celebrate the upcoming Martial Arts graduation on Sunday, 17th August. This special occasion will take place at the esteemed Bury Grammar School, located at Tenterden Street, Bury, Lancashire, BL9 OHN. A day filled with discipline, achievement, and camaraderie, the graduation promises to be a memorable milestone for students and spectators alike.

    Location and Details

    The graduation ceremony will be held in the heart of Bury at the historic Bury Grammar School. Known for its rich heritage and commitment to education, the venue provides an ideal setting for this important celebration. Families, friends, and martial arts enthusiasts are invited to attend and show their support for the hardworking students.

    Graduation Timetable

    The day is carefully structured to ensure a seamless flow of ceremonies, catered specifically to the progression levels of our martial arts students. Below is the schedule of events:

    • 9:15am: Tigers – our youngest martial artists will showcase their enthusiasm and progress.
    • 10:00am: White and Yellow Belts – beginner-level students demonstrating foundational techniques.
    • 11:00am: Orange and Blue Belts – intermediate-level participants highlighting their growing skillset.
    • 12:00pm: Green Belts – advancing students displaying refined techniques and discipline.
    • 1:00pm: Red Belts – experienced martial artists demonstrating their dedication and expertise.
    • 2:00pm: 1st Gup Red Belts – the most advanced level participants presenting their mastery of the art.
    • 3:00pm: Blackbelt Mid-Terms – The senior level demonstration

    What to Expect

    The graduation ceremony promises to be a spectacular demonstration of martial arts discipline, skill, and growth. Each group will have the opportunity to perform and showcase the techniques they have learned, reflecting their dedication and hard work over months of practice.

    Spectators will enjoy witnessing the progression of students from Tigers to advanced 1st Gup Red Belts, as each performance is a testament to the values instilled through martial arts training: perseverance, respect, and focus.

    Join Us in Celebration

    This event is more than just a graduation; it’s a celebration of achievement, community, and the transformative journey of martial arts. Whether you’re a parent, relative, friend, or martial arts enthusiast, your presence will make a difference in recognising the efforts of our students.

    See you on Sunday, 17th August, at Bury Grammar School for a day that honours the art of discipline, the joy of accomplishment, and the spirit of martial arts. Together, let’s make this graduation an unforgettable occasion for everyone involved.

  • The Origin of the Pyung Ahn Forms in Tang Soo Do

    A Journey into Tradition and Martial Philosophy

    The martial art of Tang Soo Do, known for its graceful movements and philosophical depth, has roots that span centuries, blending Korean, Chinese, and Okinawan influences. At the heart of its practice lies a series of fundamental forms known as the Pyung Ahn hyung. These forms not only serve as a cornerstone for the training of students but also carry a rich history that reflects the evolution of martial arts across different cultures and eras.

    What Are the Pyung Ahn Forms?

    The Pyung Ahn forms, often referred to as “peaceful confidence” forms, consist of five sequential patterns: Pyung Ahn Cho Dan, Pyung Ahn E Dan, Pyung Ahn Sam Dan, Pyung Ahn Sa Dan, and Pyung Ahn Oh Dan. These forms are fundamental exercises in Tang Soo Do, teaching balance, precision, and the application of basic techniques. The name “Pyung Ahn” itself symbolizes the state of tranquility and stability that practitioners aim to achieve, reflecting not only martial prowess but also mental discipline and philosophical grounding.

    The Origin of the Pyung Ahn Forms

    The Pyung Ahn forms trace their lineage to the Okinawan martial art of Karate. They are adaptations of the Heian kata, a foundational series of forms developed by Anko Itosu in the late 19th century. Itosu, a legendary martial artist and teacher, designed the Heian kata to simplify traditional forms, making them more accessible for schoolchildren and beginner martial artists while retaining their combat effectiveness.

    When these forms were introduced to Korea in the early 20th century during Japanese occupation, they became integrated into the Korean martial arts landscape. Master Hwang Kee, the founder of Tang Soo Do, adopted and adapted these movements into what we now know as the Pyung Ahn forms. In doing so, he infused them with Korean martial philosophy and aesthetics, creating a unique blend of tradition and innovation.

    Connections to the Heian Kata

    The structure and techniques of the Pyung Ahn forms closely mirror those of the Heian kata. Both series share a focus on fundamental blocks, strikes, and stances, designed to cultivate a strong foundation for self-defense and martial application. However, the Pyung Ahn forms diverge by incorporating elements that reflect Korea’s native martial traditions, such as fluidity and circular movements, which contrast with the more linear techniques of traditional Karate.

    The Name: From Pinan to Pyung Ahn

    Interestingly, the name “Pyung Ahn” is the Korean pronunciation of the Japanese term “Pinan,” which was also used by Anko Itosu for his kata. The meaning, however, remains consistent across cultures: a sense of peace and stability. This choice of name underscores the universal goal of martial arts to foster inner tranquility and confidence in practitioners, allowing them to face challenges with calm determination.

    The Evolution of the Forms in Tang Soo Do

    Master Hwang Kee refined the Pyung Ahn forms to align with Tang Soo Do’s philosophy and aesthetic principles. While preserving their emphasis on fundamentals, he adapted stances, transitions, and techniques to emphasize the fluidity and grace characteristic of Tang Soo Do. This evolution reflects the adaptability of martial arts, where each generation of practitioners imbues traditional practices with their own cultural and philosophical insights.

    Philosophical Underpinnings

    The Pyung Ahn forms are more than just a collection of techniques; they embody a way of life. The concept of “peaceful confidence” teaches practitioners to remain composed under pressure, a skill that extends beyond the dojang into daily life. By mastering the forms, students learn not only to defend themselves but also to cultivate humility, respect, and perseverance.

    The Role of the Pyung Ahn Forms in Modern Training

    Today, the Pyung Ahn forms remain a central element of Tang Soo Do practice. They serve as a bridge between beginner and advanced techniques, helping students develop the strength, coordination, and focus necessary to progress in their training. Each form introduces new challenges, building on the foundation laid by the previous one, and leading practitioners toward deeper understanding and mastery.

    Moreover, the Pyung Ahn forms offer a tangible link to the history and heritage of martial arts. By practicing these forms, students honor the generations of masters who developed and transmitted their knowledge, preserving a legacy of discipline and self-improvement.

    Conclusion

    The Pyung Ahn forms in Tang Soo Do are a testament to the enduring power of martial arts to connect cultures, generations, and philosophies. Rooted in the Heian kata of Okinawan Karate and refined through the vision of Master Hwang Kee, they encapsulate the essence of Tang Soo Do: a harmonious blend of strength, grace, and wisdom.

    As practitioners perform these forms, they engage in a timeless dialogue with the past, learning not only the techniques of self-defense but also the values of perseverance, balance, and inner peace. The Pyung Ahn forms remind us that martial arts are not merely about combat—they are a path to self-discovery and a means to cultivate a more peaceful and confident existence.

  • Graduation Syllabus for August 2025

    Graduation Syllabus for August 2025

    🐯Tiger Tots
    Outside to Inside Middle Block
    Side Kick
    Jump Side Kick
    Behind grab (Kick/stamp, spin, push)
    Side kick, Backfist, reverse Punch
    Stranger Danger

    🥋⚪️White & Yellow belts
    Backfist & cross
    Middle block
    Front kick
    2 on 2 self defence
    Front Stance

    🥋🟡Yellow belts
    Current & previous rotation

    🥋🟠🔵Orange & Blue belts
    Low, middle, high block
    Jab & cross, chop & cross, backfist & cross
    Front, side, roundhouse kick
    X-hand, same side, 2 on 2 self defence
    Front, Side, Back Stance

    🥋🔵Blue belts
    Cho Bo Ja Hyung

    🥋🟢Green Belts
    Basics
    Ki Cho Hyung Il Bu
    Side and Behind wrist grabs
    Sparring

    🥋🔴Red Belts
    Basics/combination basics
    Ki Cho Hyung Il Bu
    Pyung Ahn Sa Dan Hyung
    Side & Behind wrist grabs
    Sparring

    🥋🔴1st gups
    Pyung Ahn Sam Dan Hyung

    🥋⚫️Dan grades
    Long stick defence (All Dan grades)
    Il Soo Sik 13 to 18 (All Dan grades)
    Pyung Ahn Sa Dan Hyung (1st Dan)
    Chil Sung Il Lo Hyung (2nd Dan)
    Jin Do Hyung(3rd Dan)
    Sip Soo (4th Dan)(In class)
    Sei Shan Hyung (5th Dan)(In class)
    New Hyung to be demonstrated in December
    1st Dan – Nai Han Ji Cho Dan Hyung
    2nd Dan – Nai Han Ji E Dan Hyung
    3rd Dan – Kong Sang Koon Hyung
    4th Dan – Chil Sung Sa Ro Hyung
    5th Dan – Chil Sung Yuk Ro Hyung

  • Graduation 15th June’s progress

    We’re up to the orange and Blue belt segment and the graduation has been going great. Those who still need to come to the graduation the times are:

    Green belts 12pm

    3rd & 2nd Gup Red Belts 1pm

    1st Gup Red Belts 2pm

    Blackbelt Certificate presentation 3pm

    Good luck to everyone grading today!

    For those who want to get some training in, there is still a class on today at 5pm at our Farnworth Location.

  • Graduation 15th June 2025

    Upcoming Martial Arts Graduation: A Day of Achievement

    Celebrating Our Students’ Dedication and Progress

    Prepare to witness an inspiring event as we celebrate the upcoming Martial Arts graduation on Sunday, 15th June. This special occasion will take place at the esteemed Bury Grammar School, located at Tenterden Street, Bury, Lancashire, BL9 OHN. A day filled with discipline, achievement, and camaraderie, the graduation promises to be a memorable milestone for students and spectators alike.

    Location and Details

    The graduation ceremony will be held in the heart of Bury at the historic Bury Grammar School. Known for its rich heritage and commitment to education, the venue provides an ideal setting for this important celebration. Families, friends, and martial arts enthusiasts are invited to attend and show their support for the hardworking students.

    Graduation Timetable

    The day is carefully structured to ensure a seamless flow of ceremonies, catered specifically to the progression levels of our martial arts students. Below is the schedule of events:

    • 9:15am: Tigers – our youngest martial artists will showcase their enthusiasm and progress.
    • 10:00am: White and Yellow Belts – beginner-level students demonstrating foundational techniques.
    • 11:00am: Orange and Blue Belts – intermediate-level participants highlighting their growing skillset.
    • 12:00pm: Green Belts – advancing students displaying refined techniques and discipline.
    • 1:00pm: Red Belts – experienced martial artists demonstrating their dedication and expertise.
    • 2:00pm: 1st Gup Red Belts – the most advanced level participants presenting their mastery of the art.

    What to Expect

    The graduation ceremony promises to be a spectacular demonstration of martial arts discipline, skill, and growth. Each group will have the opportunity to perform and showcase the techniques they have learned, reflecting their dedication and hard work over months of practice.

    Spectators will enjoy witnessing the progression of students from Tigers to advanced 1st Gup Red Belts, as each performance is a testament to the values instilled through martial arts training: perseverance, respect, and focus.

    Join Us in Celebration

    This event is more than just a graduation; it’s a celebration of achievement, community, and the transformative journey of martial arts. Whether you’re a parent, relative, friend, or martial arts enthusiast, your presence will make a difference in recognising the efforts of our students.

    See you on Sunday, 15th June, at Bury Grammar School for a day that honours the art of discipline, the joy of accomplishment, and the spirit of martial arts. Together, let’s make this graduation an unforgettable occasion for everyone involved.