Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an art form that demands respect, discipline, and a cooperative environment. However, certain behaviors can seriously disrupt the experience for everyone involved. Inspired by the video “Jiu-Jitsu Pet Peeves” from the MyGrapplingSucks channel, here’s a detailed look at some common annoyances in the BJJ community.
1.“Correcting” the instructor or a higher belt because they do a technique differently that what they saw on Youtube.
One of the most disrespectful things a lower belt can do is to tell a higher belt or more experienced training partner or even the instructor that the way they do a certain technique is not as good as what they saw on Youtube. The thing that lower belts don’t realise (since they are new to Jiu-Jitsu) is that at at higher level, there is no right or wrong in Grappling. Everybody has their own way of doing something. Carlson Gracie Sr said “If your opponent is tapping, your technique is good. If he is not tapping, your technique sucks.” Rickson Gracie will do the technique different than Pedro Sauer or Roger Gracie and so on…It doesn’t mean that it’s the right way or the only way.
Advice: If you think that what the higher belt is doing is inferior, you should just keep it to yourself, as you are not yet in a position to give advice, and the higher belt will probably get offended. You should just focus on yourself and to getting better at Jiu-Jitsu.
2. “How much do you weigh?/You’re really strong”
So the lower belt is getting completely dominated by the higher belt is doing a great job of using technique and pressure to submit them. The beginner will not understand the technicality of pressure and will mis-interpret that for strength or weight. If you’re getting beaten up in training by a higher belt, please do not say either ““How much do you weigh/You’re really strong” as that is actually a big backhanded compliment in Jiu-Jitsu. You can read more about that here.
Advice: The best thing to say is ‘thank you’, or ‘wow, you destroyed me…” or even better “Can you please show me that after class?” etc…
3.Wearing Spats with No Shorts
Seeing someone in spats without shorts is more than just a fashion faux pas; it can make training partners uncomfortable. BJJ is a close-contact sport, and wearing proper attire is crucial for maintaining a respectful and professional environment. Guys, leave the superhero fantasies at home and cover up appropriately.
4. Poor Hygiene
Rolling with someone who hasn’t showered, brushed their teeth, or changed their clothes can be unbearable. It’s simple: show respect for your partners by maintaining good personal hygiene. No one wants to train with someone who smells like smoke or has bad breath.
5. Overusing Japanese or Brazilian Terms
Using the Japanese or Brazilian names for every submission can be pretentious and confusing, especially in a sport where many practitioners use the more common English or Portuguese terms. Simplicity and clarity help everyone learn more effectively.
6. Coaching Through Submissions
This is a major pet peeve. If you’re caught in a submission, don’t start giving your partner advice on how to finish it. It’s condescending and disrespectful. Just tap and learn from the experience.
7. Tap and Tell
Bragging about tapping out higher-ranked practitioners is frowned upon. Often, these higher belts are letting lower belts work or practice techniques. Boasting about it disrupts the humility and respect that are fundamental to BJJ.
8. Reckless White Belts
White belts cranking ankle locks or other submissions without proper control can be dangerous. They often don’t understand the technique fully, leading to potential injuries. It’s essential to learn control before applying submissions aggressively.
10. High School Dropouts with Expert Opinions
These individuals have an opinion on everything, from politics to technique, despite lacking substantial knowledge or education. Their unsolicited advice can mislead newer students. It’s best to listen to qualified coaches and experienced practitioners.
11. Rolling Hard with Injuries
People who roll at 110% despite having a laundry list of injuries can be frustrating. If you’re too injured to train properly, it’s better to rest and recover than to risk further injury or hinder your partner’s training.
12. Over-Talking During Rolls
Some people feel the need to narrate their day or life stories while rolling. This can be distracting and takes away from the focus and intensity needed for a good training session. Save the conversation for after class.
13. Smelly Gis
A gi that smells like cat urine or hasn’t been washed properly is a universal pet peeve. Always wash your gi after training and ensure it’s completely dry before wearing it again. Using a good detergent and sometimes vinegar can help eliminate persistent odors.
Respect, hygiene, and proper etiquette are crucial in BJJ. By avoiding these common pet peeves, you contribute to a more enjoyable and productive training environment for everyone. Remember, BJJ is not just about learning techniques but also about building a respectful and supportive community.
