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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.

Wudang Jian (Taoist straight double-edged sword from Wudang Mountains) is revered as the king of weapons in internal Chinese martial arts. The Duanwei system (1st to 6th Duan) evaluates 13 core slicing/thrusting Jian sword techniques, fluid footwork, mind-blade unification (Shen Jian He Yi), and Neigong.

1st Duan – Green Blade

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic straight sword Jian grip, 13 slashing/thrusting angles, and Taiyi step.

Symbolism & Meaning

Entry into the most famous Daoist straight sword art from Wudang Mountains.

2nd Duan – Blue Blade

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Fluid Wudang Dan Pai Jian form, circular parries, and continuous Qi energy flow.

Symbolism & Meaning

Developing the principle "The sword as an extension of arm and calligrapher's brush".

3rd Duan – Silver Blade

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Traditional Wudang Taiji Jian 54 posture form, paired sword drills, & deflections.

Symbolism & Meaning

Harmonizing internal softness with explosive sharpness at the blade tip.

4th Duan – Black Blade

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Advanced Xuanmen Jian form, close-range sword disarming, and free fencing.

Symbolism & Meaning

High level of fencing maturity in traditional Chinese dueling.

5th Duan – Gold Blade (Sifu)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Awarding Sifu title. Teaching Jian sword and passing on Daoist scriptures.

Symbolism & Meaning

Sifu = Teacher and keeper of the intangible sword legacy of Wudang.

6th Duan – Gold Dragon (Wudang Sword Master)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank. Total unity of mind, sword, and Dao effortlessly.

Symbolism & Meaning

Daoshi = Living legendary sword master of Wudang Temple.