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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.

Sport Sanda (Sanshou), the official full-contact combat discipline of the IWUF, combines traditional Wushu striking with explosive Shuai Jiao wrestling takedowns on the Leitai platform. The Duanwei system (1st to 6th Duan) evaluates boxing combinations, leg-catch takedowns, and full-contact ring competition.

1st Duan – Green Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Sanda punches and kicks, leg sweeps, and takedowns on Leitai platform.

Symbolism & Meaning

Official full-contact Chinese combat sport under IWUF governance.

2nd Duan – Blue Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Kick catch combinations, hip throws, and pushing opponent off Leitai platform.

Symbolism & Meaning

Deepening transition from striking exchanges into instant takedowns.

3rd Duan – Silver Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Amateur & semi-pro Sanda tournaments, takedown counters, and ring pace control.

Symbolism & Meaning

High physical conditioning and tactical prep for national championships.

4th Duan – Black Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Professional Sanda/Sanshou bouts, fight without pads, & international qualification.

Symbolism & Meaning

Ranked national team representative in full-contact wushu.

5th Duan – Gold Level (Sifu)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Awarding Sifu/Coach title. Training champions, team coaching, & Leitai judging.

Symbolism & Meaning

Sifu = Certified coach accredited by International Wushu Federation (IWUF).

6th Duan – Gold Dragon (Grandmaster)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank. National head coach and IWUF methodological head.

Symbolism & Meaning

Grandmaster = Living legend and chief architect of modern Sport Sanda globally.