At Evolution MMA we use colored shirts instead of belts to denote students’ rank in the MMA program. This MMA ranking system includes both Jiu Jitsu Miami and Kickboxing Miami skill levels. Here is an overview of the different shirt colors and rankings for the adult MMA program.
Level I- GreyStudents are part of the introductory MMA class at Evolution Mixed Martial Arts and have not been fully admitted into the MMA program.
Level II- White
Most students, who participate in MMA classes at least two times per week, will be able to achieve their level II certification in approximately two to three months. This is a technique-based certification. Knowing and demonstrating specific techniques on a passive partner are sufficient for achieving level II.
Level III- Green
After receiving Level II Certification, students that maintain their 2 time per week training schedule should be able to achieve their Level III Certification in about three to six months. This is a technique and application-based certification. Students must not only know specific techniques but also be able to apply certain techniques with a resistant partner. Students who have reached Level III are allowed to spar to the face if they choose, however we understand that most people can’t show up for work with a black eye or scratches on their face, so we never force students to have more contact than they are comfortable engaging with.
Coach Level I- Blue
Although there are technique requirements, this level is more of an application-based certification. Students must be able to apply certain techniques with a resistant partner during sparring, grappling, and drilling. Achieving this level allows students to assistant-teach instructional MMA classes at Evolution MMA Miami and supervise training sessions for beginners. Most students can expect to be ready for this level within three to six months after receiving Level III Certification.
Coach Level II- Purple
Students testing for this level must be able to demonstrate, apply, and teach certain techniques with a resistant partner during sparring, grappling, and drilling. Students who obtain their Coach Level II Certification will be able to lead instructional classes at Evolution MMA Miami. Most students can expect to be ready for this level between nine and twelve months after receiving Coach Level I Certification.
Coach Level III- Brown
At this level, students must not only be able to apply certain techniques with a resistant partner during sparring, grappling, and drilling, but also demonstrate their ability to teach intermediate level techniques. Most students can expect to be ready for this level within twelve and sixteen months after receiving Coach Level II Certification.
Instructor Level I- Black
To obtain Instructor Certification Students must demonstrate an advanced understanding and application of the techniques in the Evolution MMA curriculum. They most show proficiency in all areas, including defense and offense for kicking, punching, and grappling. Students should be ready for this level ten to eighteen months after completing their Coach Level III Certification. To maintain a valid Instructor credential from Evolution MMA Miami, instructors must renew their certification every year via written letter or by continued training at Evolution MMA.
