Photo: Joshua Halvatzis, Goliveco at Frota Academy in Zurich, Switzerland.
Guest post by Brandon Hetzler who is a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu black bet under Rickson & Kron Gracie, and creator of Jugoshin Ryu JuJutsu.
First I want to say that this is my idea of why we tie the belt the way we do according to Japanese martial arts. I have trained in the Japanese arts for 34 years and have acquired this knowledge from several masters over the years. It is safe to say that most Japanese martial arts tie the belt basically the same way with the same knot.
When you tie your belt, it should be more than just a random act.
It should be a reminder of how paying attention to small details can affect your whole outlook on Martial arts.
The first step is to find the middle of the belt or the “center”. This initial step should remind us to find our own “center” and get focused for your upcoming training session.
Next is to make sure it hangs evenly from the middle.
This symbolizes the importance of balance – mind, technique and body (known in Japanese as Shin Gi Tai)
Next is to wrap the belt around you.
place the middle of the belt below your belly button.
By placing the belt below your belly button your reminded of life and death and the seriousness of martial arts. For this reason, we must ensure that the Bushido code and the moral values are taught and upheld at all times.
When you wrap the belt around your waist Your belt makes an “X” behind you. This signifies that we must be aware of those who may cross us behind our back.
This “X” also covers our vital areas such as the lower spine and the kidneys. This extra padding helps protect us from strikes and throws to these areas.
Once we cross the belt in the back we bring the ends to the front and make another “X” in front of the body. This signifies that we must be aware of those who may cross us right under our own noses. The old saying goes “keep your friends close and your enemies closer”.
After making the “X” in front. We then start to tie the knot. We bring one end up under the belt and the other end down.
This up and down of the belt ends reminds us that there is always a go (hard) and a Ju (soft) in martial arts. A push and a pull. A yin and yang if you will.
When we are ready to secure the knot, we pull it tight. This reminds us to always have an indomitable spirit (fudoshin) be strong and never give up.
After the knot is tied, you want to make sure that the ends are even. This reminds us to always seek perfection in everything you do. To always seek improvement or (Kaizen) in Japanese.
Finally, if you have kanji on your belt, the name of your style is to always be worn on your left side which is closer to your heart. If you have no kanji but you have stripes on your belt. The stripes will be worn on the left side also closest to the heart.
