The following are the seven essential requirements for becoming an effective Jiu-Jitsu teacher, as outlined by master Oswaldo Fadda.

Oswaldo Fadda, a renowned grandmaster of national Jiu-Jitsu and holder of the red belt, established his first academy in the 1940s at Rua Papari 126, in Bento Ribeiro. It was at this academy that he trained his first student, Alexandre Neves, who later became the esteemed master Chandu.

As a long-time friend and healthy competitor of Helio Gracie, Fadda left behind a rare book titled “Jiu-Jitsu and the fall of complexes,” which contains his teachings. Within the pages of this book, Fadda outlines the fundamental and crucial requirements for those aspiring to become competent Jiu-Jitsu instructors. While Fadda acknowledges that obtaining a black belt is the primary criterion, he emphasizes that it alone is insufficient. The encouraging aspect, according to Fadda, is that most of these prerequisites can be developed through years of dedicated Jiu-Jitsu training and study.

We present Fadda’s key requirements for being a proficient Jiu-Jitsu instructor:

1. Achieving a Jiu-Jitsu black belt based on personal accomplishments.

2. Possessing clear articulation and effective communication abilities.

3. Demonstrating a strong personality that inspires confidence.

4. Possessing pedagogical expertise and knowledge, as well as an understanding of psychology and its practical application.

5. Exhibiting natural leadership qualities, self-reliance, and an optimistic mindset.

6. Promoting Jiu-Jitsu as more than just a sport or recreational activity, but as a complementary form of education for individuals.

7. Displaying self-criticism and an awareness of situations that may seem absurd at times.