Blue Belt in BJJ: What to Know and How to Get There?

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), earning a blue belt is one of the most celebrated milestones. For many practitioners, it’s the first big promotion after starting their journey—and it represents much more than just a new belt color.

At Dark Horse Combat Club in Denver, we see blue belts as the bridge between being a beginner and truly understanding the art. Whether you’re just starting BJJ or already working toward your promotion, here’s what you need to know about the blue belt—and how to get there.

What Does a Blue Belt Mean in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

In most BJJ academies, the belt system begins with a white belt, followed by blue, purple, brown, and black. At Dark Horse, we also have a green belt between white and blue to encourage students to start taking intermediate classes and reward the consistent work on the way to the blue belt. Learn more about what a green belt is and why we have it! The blue belt is often considered the “survivor’s belt” because it marks the point where many students drop off—and those who stick with it have built the skills, mindset, and consistency to continue.

Earning your blue belt means:

• You’ve developed a solid understanding of fundamental techniques.
• You can defend yourself effectively against untrained opponents.
• You’ve shown consistency, commitment, and a willingness to learn.
• You’ve started to form your own style within the art.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Blue Belt?

While every school is different, most students reach blue belt in 1.5 to 3 years of consistent training (around 2–3 classes per week). Factors that affect your timeline include:

Training frequency – The more often you train, the faster you’ll progress.

Technique retention – Consistently practicing what you’ve learned will speed up mastery.

Coach expectations – Some academies emphasize self-defense skills, while others prioritize competition readiness.

Your mindset – Patience, humility, and persistence are just as important as athletic ability.

What Skills Are Expected at Blue Belt?

While each school has its own requirements, most blue belts are expected to:

• Understand and apply basic positions: guard, side control, mount, back control.
• Execute fundamental submissions like the armbar, triangle choke, and rear naked choke.
• Defend against common attacks and escape bad positions.
• Chain techniques together and adapt mid-roll.
• Maintain good mat etiquette and sportsmanship.

At Dark Horse Combat Club, we focus on both self-defense applications and sport Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals, ensuring our blue belts are well-rounded.

5 Tips for Reaching Your Blue Belt

Train Consistently – Show up even when you’re tired, busy, or feeling “off.” Progress is built on routine.

Master the Basics – Fancy moves are fun, but fundamentals win matches and build confidence.

Ask Questions – Don’t just drill; understand why a move works.

Roll with Everyone – Train with higher belts, lower belts, and people of all sizes to test your skills in different scenarios.

Focus on Defense First – Learning to survive and escape will give you the confidence to attack.

Common Challenges Before Blue Belt

Many students experience “blue belt blues” before they even get there—feeling stuck, frustrated, or unsure if they’re improving. This is normal. Progress in BJJ is often slow and invisible until one day you realize you’re doing things you couldn’t do before. The key is to stay patient, trust the process, and keep training.

Your Blue Belt Journey Starts Here!

At Dark Horse Combat Club, we believe every belt tells a story. The blue belt is a symbol of dedication, resilience, and growth—not just on the mats, but in life. Our instructors are here to guide you every step of the way, from your first class to your first belt promotion and beyond.

Whether your goal is self-defense, competition, or personal development, your blue belt is waiting—you just have to earn it.

Ready to start your BJJ journey in Denver?

 Book your free trial class today and take your first step toward the blue belt!

Schedule your first session or call us at (303) 900-8111 to learn more.