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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.

In traditional and modern Shaolin Wushu, the Chinese Duanwei system (1st to 9th Duan) is used, featured with Eagle, Tiger, and Dragon rank symbols. The hierarchy evaluates physical conditioning, acrobatic leaps, traditional Five Animals Taolu forms, staff (Gun), and saber (Dao) weapons.

1st Duan – Qingying (Green Eagle)

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Mabu stances, Wubuquan fist strikes, and first Lianhuanquan form.

Symbolism & Meaning

Green Eagle level of official Chinese Duanwei system for Shaolin.

2nd Duan – Yinying (Blue Eagle)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Shaolin Tongbeiquan form, jump kicks, and Gunshu staff basics.

Symbolism & Meaning

Blue Eagle level deepening dynamics of Shaolin jumps.

3rd Duan – Jinying (Gold Eagle)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Classic Xiao Hongquan form, Daoshu saber, and Sanda application basics.

Symbolism & Meaning

Gold Eagle level concluding the basic tier of Chinese Duanwei.

4th Duan – Qinglong (Green Dragon)

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Da Hongquan form, straight Jianshu sword, and Ba Duan Jin Qigong breathing.

Symbolism & Meaning

Middle Dragon level confirming mastery of external and internal forms.

5th Duan – Yinlong (Silver Dragon)

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Luohanquan form, nine-section whip Jiujiebian, and acrobatic sparring.

Symbolism & Meaning

Silver Dragon level of experienced monks and instructors at Shaolin.

6th Duan – Jinlong (Gold Dragon)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Xinyiba advanced form, Pudao halberd, and deep Chan (Zen) meditation.

Symbolism & Meaning

Gold Dragon level of ultimate mastery in traditional combat arts.

7th Duan – Qinghu (Green Tiger)

Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

High master level. Scientific Shaolin research and national instructor training.

Symbolism & Meaning

First level of Tiger elite tier in Chinese Duanwei for grandmasters.

8th Duan – Yinhu (Silver Tiger)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Globally recognized Shaolin authority. Lifelong contribution to Wushu & meditation.

Symbolism & Meaning

Silver Tiger symbolizing lifelong dedication to Shaolin heritage.

9th Duan – Jinhu (Gold Tiger / Grandmaster)

Typical gap since previous grade: 72 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank in Chinese Wushu. Living legend and spiritual leader.

Symbolism & Meaning

Jinhu = Gold Tiger, pinnacle of Chinese culture and Shaolin heritage.