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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Bak Sil Lum (Northern Shaolin), popularized by legendary Grandmaster Gu Ruzhang in 20th-century Guangzhou, is a Northern Chinese style famed for long-range acrobatics and high kicking. The Duanwei system (1st to 6th Duan) evaluates the 10 core Kuen forms, flying kicks, spear, saber, and Iron Palm conditioning.

1st Duan – Green Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Mabu stance, long extension kicks, and first Lian Bu Quan form.

Symbolism & Meaning

Cantonese name for Northern Shaolin (Bak Sil Lum) preserved in HK and Brazil.

2nd Duan – Blue Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Duan Tda (Short Strike) form, flying acrobatic kicks, and Kwan staff drills.

Symbolism & Meaning

Developing wide range of motion and high athletic agility.

3rd Duan – Silver Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Mei Fah Kuen (Plum Blossom) form, Seung Do broadsword, and Sanda sparring.

Symbolism & Meaning

Harmonizing elegance of Plum Blossom movement with devastating impact.

4th Duan – Black Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Advanced Chut Kuen form, Gim straight sword, spear, and close-range disarms.

Symbolism & Meaning

High level of combat maturity in the 10 core forms of Bak Sil Lum.

5th Duan – Gold Level (Sifu)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Awarding Sifu title. Running Kwoon & representing legendary Gu Ruzhang lineage.

Symbolism & Meaning

Sifu = Certified teacher and guarantor of Northern Shaolin lineage purity.

6th Duan – Gold Dragon (Grandmaster)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank. Living legend & supreme Bak Sil Lum grandmaster.

Symbolism & Meaning

Grandmaster = Direct guardian and bearer of grandmaster Gu Ruzhang's legacy.