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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.

To standardize internal martial arts instruction, the Chinese Wushu Association established the Duanwei system for Tai Chi (1st to 6th Duan for technical levels, 7th–9th for grandmasters). The cascade measures fluidity of forms (Yang, Chen, Wu, Sun), Qi Gong breathing, Tui Shou pushing hands, and Jian sword application.

1st Duan – White Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Mabu stance, fluid weight shifts, and 8 basic Taijiquan forms.

Symbolism & Meaning

First official level of Chinese Duanwei system for internal Tai Chi art.

2nd Duan – Green Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Paired Tui Shou pushing hands, Ting Jin sensitivity, and 24 Taijiquan forms.

Symbolism & Meaning

Green level of harmonic body connection and sensitivity to pressure.

3rd Duan – Blue Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Taiji Jian straight sword, Taiji Dao saber, and 42 competition forms.

Symbolism & Meaning

Blue level connecting internal energy flow with cold weapons.

4th Duan – Silver Dragon

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Explosive Fa Jin force release, dynamic moving Tui Shou, and 88 traditional forms.

Symbolism & Meaning

Silver Dragon marking transition between advanced student and instructor.

5th Duan – Gold Dragon (Sifu)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Instructor training, martial applications of internal forms, and Qigong research.

Symbolism & Meaning

Gold Dragon as symbol of senior teaching rank in Chinese Wushu.

6th Duan – Black Dragon (Grandmaster)

Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Full mastery of internal Taijiquan, Wuji meditation, and lifelong contribution.

Symbolism & Meaning

Black Dragon representing ultimate synthesis of martial and health Tai Chi.