Our Rank Structure

At American Kung Fu Academy, we have 10 basic levels of rank. Each rank is represented by a different colored sash that is worn around the waist. Each student will be notified by the Sifu or Si-Heng (verbally and/or via formal letter) to individually perform or demonstrate a series of requirements for that particular level. Family members (especially parents of our younger students) are highly encouraged to attend this exciting promotion! Emphasis is placed upon individual achievement, so students are not in competition and should never ask when their promotion is. Admittedly, the notification and the promotion itself are both subjective and traditional. In this manner, we maintain the individuality and quality of instruction for our students. The levels are as follows.

  • First Level -------- White Sash
  • Second Level ----- Yellow Sash
  • Third Level ------- Gold Sash
  • Fourth Level ------ Orange Sash
  • Fifth Level -------- Green Sash
  • Sixth Level -------- Blue Sash
  • Seventh Level ----- Purple Sash
  • Eighth Level ------- Maroon Sash
  • Ninth Level -------- Brown Sash
  • Tenth Level -------- Black Sash
Beginner Levels
Intermediate Levels
Advanced Levels

Black Sash = Jow Gow = Your Goal!!

The Black Sash is perhaps the most recognized and coveted rank at American Kung Fu Academy. Black Sash Level I is considered to be an Assistant Instructor that is capable of leading a complete class from beginning to end. Black Sash Level I thru Level V are called Jow Gow (indicating both a level of higher rank and proficiency in Kung Fu). A Black Sash can be thought of as a college degree in Kung Fu. Having knowledge, technique, and self-defense skill is only part of the Jow Gow levels: Respect, Humility, Discipline, and Leadership are exemplified as well. The Black Sash represents a person who has a goal and knows the commitment it takes to achieve it. Remember, “A Black Sash is simply a White Sash who didn’t Quit!” Good fortune to all who strive to achieve the level of Black Sash!

Testing Procedure

Testing is our way of formally recognizing the progression of the student from one level to the next. To "graduate"to the next level is an accomplishment that should be taken seriously and joyfully.

  1.    Sit Up straight with legs crossed in a designated area for testing candidates
  2.    After hearing your named called (i.e.,"John Smith step forward",) Immediately stand and yell out "Sir!" as you salute to the board of instructors
  3.    Quickly run to the center of the board upon which you will be told to Salute again
  4.    The testing will be called out by either a Sifu or Jow Gow... do as instructed... (Example: "Horse stance, hup!" then " Front Punch - right hand first - hup!) Note: Like in a tournament, never turn your back to the Officials
  5.    At the end of your exam, Sifu or Jow Gow will sound the gong - Yell "Sir!" and stand at Ready Position and Salute when told to do so
  6.    Sit in the designated area for those who have completed their exam (again, legs crossed and attentive)
  7.    After all candidates have tested, your name will be called, stand up in Ready Position while instructor(s) give commentary
  8.    After passing, you will be instructed to remove your sash (don't place it on the ground... place it on a chair or give it to parents) Salute to whoever ties the new sash on you
  9.    Sifu will shout for all students to rise, upon which you will stand in the center of the kwoon and salute to the student body and then to the Sifu when told to do so
  10.   Congratulations!

During testing, the student may be called upon to do any previous requirements learned, or almost none at all.... For example, a Green Sash may only be asked to perform his main hand form. The key is to be prepared for anything up to your level of testing. This is unlike an exam at an academic school whereby you can cram the night before and still make the grade. Kung Fu takes time, effort and dedication. A constant hands-on approach is essential for maintaining and achieving excellence at our studios. You must train both in the kwoon and outside the kwoon to improve your skill. These exams/graduations are simply a formality. It is expected that all students will pass all exams that are administered. If you do not pass, it means that we have failed in our duties in both instructing and assessing your skill. This does not happen often... so ensure that you pass with flying colors by studying and practicing your material intensively.

Remember that traditional Kung Fu has no real rank per se... there is only student and Teacher. We have devised this rank structure and the requirements to guide our teachings and to allow for goals and steps in the Kung Fu training process. Kung Fu is, indeed, a lifelong and constant process. Study Hard and Good Fortune to all!!