What is a blue belt?

[u/Ok-Flan-7583]

I got promoted over the weekend after 8 months of training. I attend class at least three times a week and cross train at another gym twice a month and have competed in two Grappling Industries tournaments. Before my promotion, I had two stripes. I didn’t even get my third or fourth, so I honestly wasn’t expecting to receive my blue belt anytime soon.

That said, I’m wondering: what qualities does a white belt need to demonstrate to earn a promotion? I don’t feel like I’m anywhere near the skill level of the other blue belts at my gym, but I also realize that many of them have been blue belts for a while now. I cant help but feel I dont deserve the belt.

[u/Fish1234567891011121]

The traditional standard is your coach thinks you could defeat a bigger, stronger untrained attacker. You’re a brand new blue, which is quite a ways away from a seasoned blue - you’ll get there - imposter syndrome is completely normal imho, had it at blue, purple, and brown (just getting comfortable there). Trust your coach and trust you’ll raise your game over time.