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Are you a Taekwondo practitioner aiming for your next belt promotion? The process of advancing from Poom to Dan or progressing through the Dan ranks can be confusing, especially with the specific age and time requirements set by World Taekwondo (WT).

At London Taekwondo Warriors LTW, we ensure our students understand the entire belt progression system and what it takes to move up the ranks efficiently. Whether you’re a young Poom holder transitioning into Dan or an experienced Dan holder climbing the black belt levels, this guide will break it down step by step.

What is Poom vs. Dan in Taekwondo?

• Poom (Junior Black Belt): Given to students under 15 years old who achieve a black belt level but are not yet old enough for Dan certification.

• Dan (Senior Black Belt): Awarded to students aged 15 and above. Poom holders can transition into Dan once they reach the required age and training period.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Higher Dan Rank?

Here is a simple breakdown of the promotion requirements for each level from 1st Poom to 9th Dan:

Current Rank      Time Required  Age Requirement  Promotion Rank

1 Poom           No time limit  Under 15        –

1 → 2 Poom      1 year         Under 15        2 Poom

2 → 3 Poom      2 years        Under 15        3 Poom

3 → 4 Poom      3 years        Under 18        4 Poom

4 Poom → 4 Dan  No time limit  18 and above    4 Dan

1 Dan           No time limit  15 and above    –

1 → 2 Dan      1 year         16 and above    2 Dan

2 → 3 Dan      2 years        18 and above    3 Dan

3 → 4 Dan      3 years        21 and above    4 Dan

4 → 5 Dan      4 years        25 and above    5 Dan

5 → 6 Dan      5 years        30 and above    6 Dan

6 → 7 Dan      6 years        36 and above    7 Dan

7 → 8 Dan      8 years        44 and above    8 Dan

8 → 9 Dan      9 years        53 and above    9 Dan

Key Rules for Taekwondo Belt Promotions

1. Poom Holders Get Fast-Track Benefits

• If you start Taekwondo at a young age and earn a Poom rank, you can eventually reach up to 5th Dan after transitioning into Dan.

• At 15 years old, you can convert your Poom rank into Dan.

2. Time Requirements Between Promotions

• For low Dan holders (1st to 5th Dan), promotions require specific years of training before being eligible for the next level.

• For high Dan holders (6th to 9th Dan), the waiting period increases, often requiring many years of experience.

3. Promotion Tests & Age Requirements

• The age limit applies 15 days before and after the test date for 1st to 5th Dan promotions.

• 6th Dan and higher promotions depend on the month of the test implementation date.

4. Poom Holders Must Convert Before 5th Dan

• If you don’t convert your Poom to Dan before the 5th Dan test, you must complete additional education from Kukkiwon’s World Taekwondo Academy.

How to Get Your Next Belt at London Taekwondo Warriors?

At London Taekwondo Warriors, we offer:

✅ Expert Coaching: Learn from certified Kukkiwon instructors.

✅ Structured Training Plans: Progress step by step through Poom and Dan ranks.

✅ Official Kukkiwon Certification: Get internationally recognized black belt certifications.

✅ Regular Promotion Tests: Opportunities to take your Dan test at the right time.

If you’re looking to achieve your next Dan rank, train with the best at London Taekwondo Warriors. Contact us today to book a free trial session and start your black belt journey!

➡️ Book Your Free Trial Now: https://londontaekwondowarriors.co.uk