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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.

Beijing Shuai Jiao, developed by the Manchu Imperial Guard in the Forbidden City, is traditional Chinese jacket wrestling using the short-sleeved Bao Yi jacket. The Duanwei system (1st to 6th Duan) evaluates rapid Kua Tui hip throws, Tou Tui leg trips, belt takedowns, and remaining standing after a throw.

1st Duan – White Belt

Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Falls in Bao Yi short jacket, sleeve/collar grips, and Tou Tui leg trips.

Symbolism & Meaning

Traditional Manchu and Beijing national wrestling style with Bao Yi jacket.

2nd Duan – Green Belt

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Kua Tui hip throws, rapid belt takedowns, and grip breaking.

Symbolism & Meaning

Speed and explosiveness characteristic of Beijing Kuai Jiao branch.

3rd Duan – Blue Belt

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Gua Tui combinations, jumping throws, and sweeping opponent while standing.

Symbolism & Meaning

In Shuai Jiao there is no ground fighting – victory is remaining standing.

4th Duan – Purple Belt

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Counter-throws, tactical leverage analysis at contact, and free wrestling.

Symbolism & Meaning

Pre-master tier of competitive champions in Chinese national leagues.

5th Duan – Brown Belt (Instructor)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Instructor certification, teaching traditional jacket grips, and refereeing.

Symbolism & Meaning

Official guarantor of the Chinese National Wrestling Association.

6th Duan – Black Belt (Shi Fu Master)

Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Full Shi Fu master rank. Perfect balance, internal power, and lineage transmission.

Symbolism & Meaning

Shi Fu = Recognized authority of the Beijing wrestling style with global renown.