In Finland, krav maga uses both belt and level systems, depending on the style of the club. In level systems, two levels correspond to one belt value as a rule. The most important thing to remember, however, is that the belt or level does not perform self-defence, but a competent person does it himself. Belt and level values provide rhythm and milestones for long-term training.
Finnish Krav Maga Federation’s Finnish style belt requirements.
General minimum time from start: 2 months
Number of practices since previous belt test: 20
The person is able to punch (straight punches) and kick (knee kick, front kick) and understands/is able to perform (movement paths are at least in the right direction) the techniques specified in the list. The key criterion is that the defence is effective and the situation can be escaped/rescued.
General minimum time from start: 6 months
Amount of practice since previous belt test: 40
The person is able to confuse, punch, kick and effectively counter in situations that meet the belt requirements. The main criterion is that the body control and execution of the movements are clear and powerful.
General minimum time from start: 18 months
Amount of practice since previous belt test: 60
The person’s attacking action is effective, straightforward and he can combine punches and kicks into effective, simple combinations. Distracting and confusing the opponent is a natural part of the action. In defensive techniques, the yellow and orange belt techniques/defensive situations are well controlled and all techniques are clear in their movements and powerful in their effectiveness.
General minimum time from start: 36 months
Amount of practice from previous belt test: 100
The person is able to defend himself effectively against several attackers in starting situations from a standing position. Confusing and distracting opponents is a natural part of the action. The person is already able to defend himself well against an armed attacker. All actions are straightforward and effective. The person can already explain and demonstrate in practice the central philosophy of krav maga: don’t fight by your opponent’s rules.
General minimum time from start: 48 months
Amount of practice since previous belt test: 150
Mastery of the requirements of previous belt levels. Ability to defend effectively against multiple attackers in standing, seated and partially from the ground. The person is already able to defend himself well against an armed attacker. All actions are straightforward and effective. The person practically masters the central philosophy of krav maga: don’t fight by your opponent’s rules.
General minimum time from start: 60 months
Amount of practice since previous belt test: 200
Finnish Krav Maga black belt is a professional in self-defence and violent situations. He understands the whole concept of “conflict management”, interaction, the importance of natural reactions in defending oneself and the legislation related to self-defence. Krav Maga philosophy and attitude is an inherent part of a person’s life. The technique is sharp, straightforward, decisive and effective. A Krav Maga black belt can be thrown into any situation and action is generated.
DAN GRADES
BLACK BELT GRADES 2-5
In Finland, Krav Maga black belt levels 2-5 are awarded based on the criteria in the document. The awarding of a belt can be proposed by the person’s own club or by two SKML black belts together. The belt is awarded by the Federation’s Board of Directors or by a body appointed by the Board.
the belting committee.
BELTS DAN 6-8, The colour of the belt is red-white.
The children and young people belt system can be found at the link.
The Finnish Krav Maga Federation’s national style belt system offers the opportunity for goal-oriented training and self-development. The belt examination system emphasises the implementation of the general principles of Krav Maga and physical self-defence as well as the psychological and legal aspects of self-defence.
The member clubs of the Finnish Krav Maga Federation also practise level/belt systems of other Krav Maga styles. You can find more detailed instructions for these on the individual pages of the styles/your club.
The belt tests allow everyone to systematically monitor the development of their own skills. The quizzes provide feedback and guidance on how to focus your training, what to pay attention to and also which areas are at a good level. NOTE! No one is obliged to take the belt test, it’s the training that counts!
As of 1.1.2018, the official training uniform of the Finnish Krav Maga Federation will be the belt test outfit, which includes a blue training jacket with the federation’s symbols, black trousers with the federation’s symbols and the previous completed belt. Both the jacket and the trousers may also bear the official emblem of your club. The yellow belt may also be worn in an outfit other than the official tracksuit.
Conditions for taking the belt tests
The exam price includes a diploma and a belt
The Finnish Krav Maga Federation’s national style belt tests are held at separate belt test events organised by the clubs and/or in connection with SKML camps and coach trainings. The yellow, orange and green belt levels can be carried out in your own club. Blue, brown and black belts may be worn at SKML camps or coaches’ training sessions.
In order to take part in the belt tests, the trainee must obtain permission from the instructor of his/her club. This permission must be in writing and must be present at the belt test or delivered to the person who will be taking the belt test.
To participate in a belt test, the trainee must have a Krav Maga passport. The pass costs 25€ and can be obtained from your club or from the organiser of the belt test.
To participate in the belt test, the candidate must have a valid Krav Maga license and Krav Maga training insurance.
Time interval/amount of practice from the previous test:
National belt requirements can be found on the website of the Finnish Krav Maga Federation as separate documents.
The belt test is passed or failed, the examiner gives feedback. A fee will also be charged for retaking a failed test. A failed test will be retaken in full at the next test.
The black belts of the Finnish Krav Maga Federation take the belt values yellow, orange, green in the clubs. Blue, brown, black belt ranks are carried out at the Federation’s national camps.
