Gracie Barra, one of the most well-known Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu affiliations globally, has found itself at the center of controversy yet again. A recent viral video has shed light on the school’s strict and, according to some, cult-like rules—especially regarding belt etiquette. This has sparked a broader debate: Are these rules about instilling respect, or are they methods of control masked as martial arts culture?
In response to the video, Gracie Barra Fulham took to social media, emphasizing that respect is at the core of BJJ training. They stated:
“Mastering the art of BJJ starts with respect both on and off the mat. Whether you’re a white belt or a seasoned practitioner, following proper etiquette is essential for a safe and positive training environment.”
They followed up by listing a set of etiquette rules for students to adhere to:
- Antibac the soles of your feet before stepping onto the mats – Ensure cleanliness and safety on the mats.
- Sit cross-legged and upright when resting – Show respect and maintain awareness of yourself and others.
- Always bow when entering and exiting the mat – A gesture of respect and maintaining standards.
- Wear shoes when off the mat – Keep the mats clean.
- Face away from the instructor when tying your belt – Show respect.
- Do not bring drinks onto the mat – Maintain hygiene at all times.
While Gracie Barra defends these rules as essential for discipline and respect, the online response has been far from unanimous. Many BJJ practitioners took to the comments to mock the overly strict guidelines, particularly the rule about turning away from the instructor while adjusting belts.
One user commented:
“Are you asking permission to leave and come on the mats? No, I’m good, thanks.”
Another added:
“Y’all treat your students like they’re in 3rd grade, asking permission to walk off the mat lol. We get treated like adults at my academy, and I like it that way.”
Others ridiculed the tradition of bowing when entering or exiting the mats, with one stating:
“Bowing at a mat? Nah, I’m good 😭. Too much needless power-tripping with arbitrary rules.”
Some, however, found a bit of common ground, agreeing with the hygiene-focused rules but criticizing the rest as excessive. One commenter summed up the growing sentiment in the BJJ community:
“This is why Gracie Barra is a joke to most people. Do you let your students train at other academies?”
This viral incident highlights the ongoing debate in the BJJ world: Are traditional etiquette rules essential for fostering respect, or are they unnecessary, rigid structures that alienate modern practitioners? Gracie Barra, for better or worse, remains a lightning rod in this discussion.
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