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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.

Pak Hok Pai (White Crane Fist), derived from Tibetan Lion's Roar and popularized in Hong Kong, combines long whipping crane-wing arm strikes with agile evasion. The Duanwei rank system (1st to 6th Duan) evaluates crane-wing deflections, rapid eye/throat strikes, Cotton Needle forms, and traditional weapons.

1st Duan – Green Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Mabu stance, Crane wing circular movements, and introductory Pak Hok form.

Symbolism & Meaning

Tibetan-Cantonese White Crane style created by Lama Ng Mui / Ah Dat in 15th century.

2nd Duan – Blue Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Mian Zhen Kuen (Cotton Needle) form, finger pressure point strikes, and parries.

Symbolism & Meaning

Deepening principle of soft external movement with hidden steel needle inside.

3rd Duan – Silver Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Training with Gim straight sword, combat Shan fan, and paired sparring.

Symbolism & Meaning

Transferring White Crane wing elegance into traditional Chinese weapons.

4th Duan – Black Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Pak Hok Kuen form, uncompromising Chin Na joint locks, and Sanda sparring.

Symbolism & Meaning

High level of combat maturity in Cantonese-Tibetan Pak Hok Pai lineage.

5th Duan – Gold Level (Sifu)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Awarding Sifu title. Running Kwoon and transmitting Luk Ah Choy lineage.

Symbolism & Meaning

Sifu = Certified teacher and guarantor of White Crane school purity.

6th Duan – Gold Dragon (Grandmaster)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank. Living legend & supreme Pak Hok Pai grandmaster.

Symbolism & Meaning

Grandmaster = Direct guardian and bearer of White Crane historical legacy.