How To Tie A Belt

The Classic Tie

Etiquette is one of our Five Principles, and respect is at its heart. A clean uniform and a neatly tied belt is a nod to the traditions that brought the art of Shaolin Kempo Karate to the modern day. United Studios of Self Defense is proud to uphold these traditions.

This belt tying method starts at the center of your waist and wraps both ends around to the front, creating a tidy, even knot.

1) Find the Midpoint

Fold your belt in half to locate the exact center.

2) Set the Center

Place that midpoint against your waist at the jacket’s tie point (just below your navel), with the belt lying flat.

3) Wrap Around

Take both ends behind you, cross them at your spine to switch hands, and continue wrapping until both ends return to the front. Keep tension even and the belt flat with no twists.

4) Even the Ends

Slide and adjust so both tails in front are the same length.

5) Anchor  Both Layers

Take the right tail straight across the front over the left tail. Tuck that right tail up behind the entire belt (both layers) and pull it out the top. Snug both tails downward to anchor the wrap.

6) Square Knot Finish

Now tie a square knot: bring the left tail over the right tail, then pass it up through the loop you just made. Pull outward (not upward) to tighten. The knot should sit flat and horizontal, like a rectangle.

7) Final check

• Tails are equal length and point straight down.
• Knot sits centered, flat, and secure.
• Belt layers are smooth and aligned around your waist.

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