← Back to martial art

General overview of grades

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

Yiquan (Dachengquan / Intent Boxing), created by Wang Xiangzhai in the 1920s from Xingyiquan, discarded fixed Taolu forms entirely. The Duanwei system (1st to 6th Duan) evaluates the 7 training pillars—Zhan Zhuang standing meditation, Shi Li force testing, Mocabu friction footwork, explosive Fali, Shisheng voice, and Sanshou sparring.

1st Duan – Green Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Zhan Zhuang standing meditation, Shi Li force testing, and Yi mental intent.

Symbolism & Meaning

System created by Wang Xiangzhai in 1920s simplifying Xingyiquan.

2nd Duan – Blue Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Zou Bu stepping in motion, explosive Fa Li power release, and full-body synergy.

Symbolism & Meaning

Transferring static force from standing meditation into dynamic movement.

3rd Duan – Silver Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Tui Shou hand sensitivity without fixed forms, Shi Sheng vocal force burst.

Symbolism & Meaning

Fluidly adapting body to opponent's pressure under contact.

4th Duan – Black Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Applying sensed force in full-contact San Shou combat and Yiquan staff drills.

Symbolism & Meaning

Absence of fixed kata – combat as a pure manifestation of present mind.

5th Duan – Gold Level (Sifu)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Awarding Sifu title. Teaching internal power and Wang lineage representation.

Symbolism & Meaning

Sifu = Certified teacher and guarantor of Dachengquan philosophy purity.

6th Duan – Gold Dragon (Grandmaster)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank. Total unity of body, mind, and cosmic force.

Symbolism & Meaning

Grandmaster = Living legend and keeper of founder Wang Xiangzhai's legacy.