How to Tie Your Judo Belt (Obi)

In judo, your belt (obi) serves a practical and symbolic purpose. It holds your judogi together, shows your rank, and reflects discipline and order. While there are many ways to tie a belt, the International Judo Federation (IJF) prescribes a standard method used in competition and formal contexts.

Step-by-Step Guide – IJF-Approved Obi Knot

This method is the most widely accepted way of tying your belt in judo:

Find the centre of your belt and place it flat against your stomach, just below your navel.
Wrap both ends around your waist, crossing them behind your back and bringing them forward again.
Make sure the belt overlaps evenly at the front. Both ends should hang down at the same length.
Cross the left end over the right, then pull it under both layers of belt from bottom to top.
Finally, tie a square knot by crossing the top end over the bottom, then pull it through and tighten firmly.
The ends should hang down evenly, and the knot should lie flat and centred.

This is the same method required in most grading exams and international competitions.

Why the Knot Matters

A correctly tied belt shows attention to detail, self-discipline, and respect for your dojo. In competition, judges may stop a match if the belt is loose or tied incorrectly. For instructors, it sets a visible example to students.

History of the Obi in Judo

The use of coloured belts in martial arts is often credited to Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo. In the early days, all judoka wore a white training outfit with no rank distinction. Around 1883, Kano introduced the concept of rank (dan) and began using black belts to indicate advanced students.

The idea of coloured belts for lower ranks (kyu) came later, inspired partly by the belt system in swimming and other sports. This helped motivate beginners and gave structure to the progression system.

The obi itself predates judo and was originally a traditional sash used with kimono or martial arts uniforms (keikogi). Kano adopted the obi as part of the judogi, turning it into a visual symbol of a judoka’s journey.

Today, the colour and condition of a judoka’s belt reflects more than skill—it represents dedication, effort, and respect for tradition.