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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.

Qixing Tanglangquan (Seven Star Praying Mantis), created by Wang Lang in Shandong, is a Northern Chinese style famous for rapid mantis hook hand strikes and monkey footwork. The Duanwei system (1st to 6th Duan) evaluates core forms (Bengbu, Lanjie), rapid eye/throat strikes, and traditional weapons.

1st Duan – Green Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Qixing footwork (Seven Star steps), fist strikes, and mantis guards.

Symbolism & Meaning

Fast and aggressive Chinese style imitating praying mantis movements.

2nd Duan – Blue Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Tiao trapping techniques, backhand strikes, and Bengbu Quan form.

Symbolism & Meaning

Development of sticky hands and rapid weight shifting.

3rd Duan – Silver Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Lanjie Quan form (Intercepting), advanced close-quarters takedowns and kicks.

Symbolism & Meaning

Fluid combination of evasion, blocking, and joint crushing.

4th Duan – Gold Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Ba Zhou (8 Elbows) form, Dao saber combat, and two-section staff.

Symbolism & Meaning

Mastery of devastating short-range elbow techniques.

5th Duan – Black Level (Sifu)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Chin Na joint locks, Jian sword, Qiang spear, and instructing advanced students.

Symbolism & Meaning

Sifu = Official teacher of the traditional Seven Star method.

6th Duan – Gold Star (Grandmaster)

Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable master level. Perfect internal and external energy fusion.

Symbolism & Meaning

Grandmaster = Living head of the Qixing Tanglangquan lineage.