The 10 Most HATED Things BJJ Gyms Do...

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

You deserve to be happy! Click betterhelp.com/jtjj and receive 10% OFF your 1st month of therapy with BetterHelp! Thank you BetterHelp for sponsoring this video!

[@FL0RIS0]

Something I dont love about my gym is how hard they roll. I started BJJ at a 10th planet and everyone rolled relaxed and chill, and occasionally hard. I moved to a diffrent more traditional BJJ gym because it is a lot closer to my home, and everyone here rolls like it is a life or death fight all the time. You are also not allowed to take rest rounds in sparring. I get that that makes you improve faster but injuries are just way more common when you always roll like that.

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Yepp can't imrpove when you're injured. Not being able to take rounds off is so weird to me. Somedays I'm tired and take a round off. I like rolling hard but not everyone does or wants to roll hard every round. There should definitely be more of a balance.

[@liamdoes8580]

That seems like a health hazard. It's important to push yourself but if you need a round off that's fine

[@BH-ix7nq]

Imagine being a grown ass man AND paying customer and then a dude says "hey, you can't rest in between rounds"🤡 sometimes the extra drive is worth it man

[@quocanhpham8033]

Rolling hard can make you excessive reliance on strength can hinder your conscious decision-making and make your subconscious mind take over. If your subconscious mind is trained with incorrect techniques and solely depends on physical strength, your overall improvement will be limited, as repeating the same mistakes over due to too much strength use. Therefore , it will slowdown your process that you could have had much faster by roll slow pace and technique focus or drilling with a goal in mind. Additionally, this roll hard all the time increases the risk of injuries and reduces your chances of opportunities for improvement on the mat.

[@ricksanchezrosallini3482]

Go to a different gym brother! Or just get good position and control when you're going crazy let them gas and then you can do your thing! But I feel you, rolling hard every single time it's not good on the body. At the end of the day we want to use technique. And you should be happy when you train and rest if you want to. To prevent injuries. 🤙🏽

[@xtrakewlguy666]

Charging for promotions is totally insane. I didn't even know gyms did that.

[@jimchino1305]

I don't know you on personal level but you seem like an awesome coach. Your videos are so well produced and any chance I get, I try to study what you are presenting. I've been training since the 90s and I wish I had this channel back then. New jiu jitsu players my not understand the value you are providing here butt I do. Keep up the good work! You have a lot to be proud of!

[@Craigsoubliere]

Just started jujitsu 3 months ago at 52 and your videos have really help me develop. I appreciate all your hard work brother.

[@crazyboi1818]

My gym quite literally does none of these bad things, all the way down to every honorable mention. I’ve never been more thankful for something in my life than landing in one of the best gyms in my region, and on my first try too. My coach even encourages us to cross train because he knows how good he brings up his students, as well as others in the community/area know too 😁

[@tylerheerdt6438]

Damn, almost everything you said a gym should be, is what my gym is, and almost everything you said a gym shouldn't be, it isn't. Our coaches are so knowledgeable, laid back, and progressive. They're watching what works and are teaching that. We usually have open mat for an hour or so after class too. They even have a free open mat on Sundays that tons of people from other gyms come to. They don't care whats on your gi or rash guard. Also, they teach heel hooks and other leg locks at white belt (even in the gi lol). I love my gym. Been there almost three years.

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Sounds like a great gym! You're very lucky. Lotta horror stories already in the comments 😬

[@Wayniesgirl]

Sounds exactly like my gym! They do watch the locks with white belts closely while rolling, though

[@vanyaz4445]

The only reason i still go to my gym (that forces u to buy gear) is that it is the only gym in my area. Makes me sad every time i think about it. I had so many nice rashguards that i am now not allowed to wear.😢

[@mmhm007]

That's so whack! Sorry to hear that

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

That sucks!! Reminds me of highschool. I went to a catholic school where we had to wear uniforms. I don't want to deal with that shit as a grown man just trying to have fun grappling haha. So lame.

[@Dbunkr55]

Me too! Thats how some of these gyms feel -- like catholic school...lol@@JordanTeachesJiujitsu

[@adammcnamara5027]

Im in the exact same boat

[@naoimhinfada6233]

​@@JordanTeachesJiujitsuIt's worth pointing out that this is an art that comes from a country that's 98 percent Catholic. I mean, it's an obvious cash grab, but now I have to wonder if that's not the only reason.

[@JT76]

I'm a black belt also and have been in numerous gyms over the years. You did an excellent job with your list, bravo. I would add that too many instructors also overly focus on offensive tournament based strategies to get points and not an equal amount of defensive work-getting yourself unstuck and out of trouble. Strikes also, most gyms advertise "self defense" but you can go three years and not even be in one class where a striking scenario is worked.

[@danmazur7133]

Gracie Barra: “I feel attacked” lol

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Lol they're definitely a culprit. My friend owns a really great Gracie Barra, so I felt bad in a sense making this list. But I think it is good to put pressure on gyms to change their ways and lighten up a bit.

[@danmazur7133]

@@JordanTeachesJiujitsu Absolutely, I know great people that have come out of Gracie Barra gyms but if they do 90% of the things on this list that people hate then perhaps a change is to be considered.

[@CDABXXX]

Deservedly so!

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

@@danmazur7133 yepp agreed. Some are really good and can be worth putting up with the stuff on the list, but I'd definitely rather them not do this kind of stuff in the first place. My gym is successful and I don't do any of this. I think it's all so unnecessary.

[@charles9571]

Alliance joined the chat

[@edmondlau511]

7 is a huge pet peeve of mine. Doing 15 minutes of side shuffles, bear crawls, shrimping, forward rolls, backwards rolls, etc is just taking away time that could be spent learning jiu jitsu. I prefer functional warmups such as grip fighting, pummeling, etc. $35/stripe is freaking ridiculous. I can’t believe a place like that can stay in business unless it’s a big name school with students who have big money.

[@JohnRBIV]

I would waaayy rather roll for an extra 15 minutes than just cram in aligator walks, cartwheels and bear crawls. Sure it’s good for conditioning, but so is rolling.

[@stugler6939]

The cash for stripes is a reality around my parts. When you don't live in a large center with any competition, the monopoly tends to dictate...

[@Lifecounselor710]

Yes hated this back in the day

[@edmondlau511]

@@stugler6939correct me if I’m wrong but isn’t one of the stereotypes of the karate and tae kwon do school how they charge for promotions while promoting quick because it’s seen as a source of income?

[@rodtheleg2517]

I wholeheartedly agree with the importance of training and the unique sense of camaraderie it can foster, but I do have a personal preference for Jiu-Jitsu schools that require a uniform. Having served in the US Army, I've come to appreciate the significant role uniforms play in fostering a sense of unity among members of the same unit. Wearing a uniform not only enhances the feeling of belonging but also signifies a deep commitment to the Jiu-Jitsu community and a profound respect for fellow practitioners. In the world of Jiu-Jitsu, appearance holds immense importance as it embodies the cultural norms and values of the discipline. It's not just about the clothing; it's about the shared identity and dedication that uniforms represent. During my time in the Army, I trained at various Jiu-Jitsu schools across the country, and I noticed a stark difference in the sense of unity and belonging when a uniform was required. It made me feel like an integral part of the team, something I didn't always experience at schools with a more relaxed dress code. I want to emphasize that this is purely a matter of personal preference, and I respect that different practitioners have their own preferences when it comes to Jiu-Jitsu training environments. For me, the uniform requirement aligns with my past experiences and the sense of community I value in my Jiu-Jitsu journey.

[@chrissheila]

Well said. I’m sure Manchester United wouldn’t appreciate their players wearing Liverpool shirts.

[@randysvids4774]

I go to a school wear the dress code is pretty relaxed but I still have that sense of unity with my teammates because we all strive to get better and are supportive of each other. Not saying that everyone dressing the same is bad, but feel that you can still have that sense of unity without everyone dressing the same as well

[@bmiliten]

One of the reasons I moved to Austin, TX was for jiu jitsu and unfortunately a lot of the gyms around here have these issues

[@fullmerfitmindandbody]

I truly believe that concepts are so much more important than the individual techniques and that is how I try to teach now. I started at a school that mainly only taught fundamental concepts and would sprinkle in a submission here and there to keep us interested and hungry. I didn't know the rapid progression I was actually getting! I didn't know any better until I visited another bjj school to take a class. It was an hour of random techniques and then an hour of rolling. I asked if this was the norm, they told me yes. Didn't really think anything of it at the time, just wasn't what I was used to. I had been training for a little under a year 2 days a week (other days were boxing and muay thai). When I rolled with their blues and purples I was easily able to handle myself against them, getting submissions and control. It's always refreshing to see a coach stress concepts over techniques because I truly believe that was how I progressed so quickly.

[@shihonage]

My first year of BJJ was essentially wasted on a gym with brutal warmups where the Brazilian coach taught random crap like deep half guard instead of basic triangle. After a year I had no idea how to do a triangle and I broke my finger.

[@skintback8211]

Word. Same here atm.. Trying to figure out if I should cold turkey leave or sorta just go once a week as I have found a way better facility. No basics for wht belts.. Just throw some moves out there and see if it sticks to the wall. Music so loud I can't hear the coach etc..

[@christopherburns6403]

As a strength and conditioning coach (white belt BJJ) nothing drives me crazier than excessive warmups or "let's make the gym really really hot and uncomfortable". THOSE BOTH LITERALLY MAKE LEARNING HARDER!! The body will not learn new information as well when its exhausted, just do some light drilling or quick simple warm up and get to teaching.

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Ya man exactly. We need to get away from the "old ways".

[@soumyabratachakraborty3544]

I am super pumped for your upcoming seminar on October 1st and really looking forward to make the most out of it. There was a point where I felt like quitting jiu jitsu for good because it is such a complicated martial arts and every gym I went to had the same thing where they would teach random techniques and when asked why are you exactly doing it they always had one bs answer. But after watching your channel I realised there is a method to this madness and you made everything sound soo easy and logical. You're one of the best coach out there so please keep it up. The bjj community needs you

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Thanks man! Looking forward to meeting you. I really believe BJJ is actually pretty simple. It frustrates me seeing how much people overcomplicate it. They do so because they don't understand themselves imo.

[@Redbaron215317]

"I'm nonconfrontational by nature. Not just because I'm Canadian." 🤣 I'm dead. Solid video. Not a big advocate of long term contracts either. My gym has them, but offers unlimited classes/day/week. I guess it's a decent trade off. Great content and I'm enjoying your channel. Keep up the great work!

[@blackanviljiujitsucompany1993]

I cofounded and built 3 academies in San Diego over a 10 year period before selling to my partner and moving to Florida and I can tell you I basically agree with everything you said including the honorable mentions .. my former partner and I would occasionally bump heads over some of them and it kinda sucks that many of them are becoming industry standards.. good video dude

[@spaceforce0]

what academies?

[@harryclavin]

Hey man, moving to SD this summer for 3 months and want to train! Where would you recommend?

[@blackanviljiujitsucompany1993]

@@harryclavin it really depends on where you’re staying in SD. Sundays have seemed to become a huge open mat day with victory having one in the am .. barum Jiu Jitsu (longest running sun open mat in sd) from like 10-12 then legion in the afternoon … lmk where you’re staying I’ll give you some specifics

[@fazer12779]

I agree with what you say. I think belt promotion should definitely be based on your understanding of the techniques, rather than time or attendance. example: How can you be promoted to say a blue belt if you can’t even sweep properly or escape mount!

[@ucrsae]

I love your videos. This one reinforced how much I love my gym. We definitely sandbag a little but my professor trained under Carlson Sr. and Carlson Jr. so that was a completely different era and mentality back then. I much rather wait a year longer for a promotion than get one a year too soon. Shout out to Carlson Gracie Riverside.

[@TC_Personal]

The only thing I might disagree on is the traditional warm ups, but I come from a gym where we have 3 instructors and only 1 does war ups. lol. However, I feel like warming up doing rolls, shrimps, reverse shrimps, sit outs, etc. really helps me think of the way my body should move during a roll back in the day... now, do I love them at my current experience level? not really, but I see the fundamentals purpose

[@Jippji]

This list makes me feel very lucky at my gym. The reason I watched the video was to see if the long warmup would be on there because that was the only thing I didn’t like about my gym and they have fixed that now. Instead of shrimps and front rolls for 15 mins we just do a couple rounds of arm bars from mount or guard, triangles from guard etc. just simple movements that a guy should do anyways. They said if you want to warm up more just come a little earlier. I can’t say how much more appealing it is to show up knowing I don’t have a long warm up like that

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Way better that way. Glad they changed it!

[@mmhm007]

Great list. The only one I would disagree with is the basic movement warmups which I think are critical. When I have 20-30 kids on the mat, It seems critically important they they understand all of the basic movements as they directly apply to actual techniques. For instance, I stress proper technical stand - foot and opposite hand. That builds into foot and opposite shoulder for hip escape. That builds into head tuck for flame throwers and granny (which ties into proper front roll). Can also build into foot and opposite shoulder for getting to turtle.

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Ya definitely! They can be a great tool. I just think too much of a good thing can be the case in some gyms :)

[@paultimler474]

Great list! Unfortunately my gym does a few of these things: warmups that take 15 minutes of a 60 minute class, leaving little time for rolling at the end. There is a kids class just before ours and a Muay Thai class right after, so we don’t get the time for extra rolls if we want. Frustrating.

[@Jippji]

I can’t stand the long warm up man. I would complain to select people about that from time to time and they just switched to a different style warm up just doing arm bars from mount and other basic movements for a couple rounds. It is so much better that way

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

So lame. Why waist time doing bullshit, when you can do the sport you're actually there to learn, and do.

[@berosar]

I hate them, and they are universal across sports as well. Every sport I tried had ridiculously long warm ups.

[@vibovitold]

15 minutes isn't long for a proper warm-up. It's 60 minutes that's too short for a proper class.. It should be more around 75-90 minutes imho, at least if you do both sparing and technique

[@stewmeat9261]

My Gracie gym charges extra when the "Gracie" person has a seminar. I already pay $150 a month and they want $50 to attend a seminar to see the guy who's name is on my Gi.

[@keystothetruth]

Not rolling with your students!

[@upgrayde]

How does everyone feel about a 5 minute warmup at beginning of class? I’m curious, because I teach once per week and I’m the only teacher that does warmups at our school. I limit it to 5 minutes. Then 25- 30 minutes technique followed by 25-30 minutes rolling. 1 hour class, so if technique runs 30 minutes, then will roll for 25 minutes. What’s the general consensus on that format?

[@overrideFunction]

Not gonna lie, I enjoy the traditional warmup as it helps get me moving and in the right headspace. However, I have no issues warming up before or just taking the first round as a slower warmup round. I do agree ir should bot be long. No more than 5-7 minutes unless you're including positional sparring as a warmup.

[@danielskrivan6921]

Our Friday classes are a bunch of techniques at random. The coach of that class says he's not worried about us learning everything, but just that we can learn something. But he does also keep it in line with the weekly theme.

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

I think switching it up can actually be great. Sometimes certain moves don't require multiple classes, and it can prevent monotony of the classes being so similar. Definitely a balance is most important :)

[@myroslavgl]

Great video, Jordan! I have a comment regarding random techniques. I started training the beginners' group 6 months ago. I noticed that newcomers may be bored while studying one theme, even for as little as two weeks in a row. However, as a purple belt, I would love to concentrate on a specific position for a month! So, I believe the approach depends on the audience. Thus, I mix submissions, guard passes, sweeps, and so on from one week to another. I would be glad if you could provide me with some advice on how I can improve the structure of themes from one week to another.

[@K-Var]

You can train specific position easily longer period of times and keep people motivated doing combo moves. IE. position is closed guard. You can teach how to sweep to a full mount position and make a choke from there. Or one day you can teach takedown's and guard retentions if you get taken down. Training a position is not only starting from that position and doing single moves. I hope this helps. :) regards from BJJ instructor who started 2002.

[@myroslavgl]

@@K-Varthat makes sense! Thanks

[@Wayniesgirl]

I am SO happy to know the academy I train at checked all the boxes for what to do right! 👍

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Definitely lucky! So many horror stories in the comments!

[@ricksanchezrosallini3482]

Gracie barra the macdojos!!! I've trained in checkmat Hollywood, Eastside JiuJitsu in LA and now Carlson Gracie in Houston. ALL 3 ARE GREAT GYMS. OSSS

[@RicoMnc]

There are always exceptions. I think new white belts, especially smaller/weaker/older students benefit more from organized warm-ups, but yes, sometimes they can be ridiculously intense or long. I like to do more BJJ related movements in warm-up than generic exercises, a few rolls and shrimps, stand up in guard etc. and I have recently discovered I really like starting with a short "flow-roll" to warm-up, but newer students may struggle to regulate their intensity or understand how to do this. I welcome an occasional light, technique instruction focused class from time to time. The opposite of this, just roll most of the class, also may be beneficial from time to time, but neither should be the rule.

[@Ash__Adler]

Pretty good list. Focusing on specific techniques without explaining the underlying concepts is a huge turn-off for me, especially when I'll try questions about what the broad points are that I should keep in mind during a certain situation or about trying to understand why I'm having trouble with something in rolling, only to get waffling responses that I need to learn more techniques.

[@robertlee1145]

I agree with you except number 1 and 2 . I do allow members to buy gear online but I prefer they buy from us. This helps pay the bills so they have a gym to come to. Gear sells help tremendously, we are not getting rich by any means but it sure does help when unexpected costs come up. Having a 30 day cancelation helps with the budget. Knowing what you have to work with for the following month will help when making decisions on purchasing equipment /improvements for the gym. All the rest I completely understand.

[@EvilEvo_3]

I thank God my school does none of these 10 things lol this just helped me confirm even more that i picked a great gym! i love your out look man, keep these coming!

[@vector4100]

I personally dont feel like charging for belt promotions is particularly bad, but this is from a Brazil point of view, where you cant charge too much monthly for students to train. However, belt promotions here can vary from 50 to 250 dollars (200 to 1250 reais) which are quite expensive...

[@dynamic75]

Good points made. I've been out a month when my training partner landed with his shoulder on top of my rib cage while drilling double leg. WTH!.

[@jakemrmean3008]

Regarding warm ups, totally agree. Aswell as energy … wastes a lot of energy that seriously adds up over time.

[@TridentLion]

The belt systems at different gyms bug me. Some gyms they tell you when you will get your rank, so its based on number of classes. Some promote too soon, some promotions take to long. Yes number of classes play a part but actually skill acquisition should be taken into consideration. Some guys rank up before other guys simply based on class numbers not skill.

[@danielinserte9814]

I actually tried to join a bjj gym in my area that had way to long warm up so i ended up injuring my self during the warm up but i really wanted to try to roll for my first time, but all i did was increase the injury, and now im scared to go to another gym incase its the same.

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Yepp exactly. The warm ups themselves can be just as dangerous. Like if you're cold and do an improper front roll, you can injure your neck all the same as rolling.

[@danielinserte9814]

@@JordanTeachesJiujitsu almost what happend to me but i wasnt cold i was way to tired so i had no strength left to do anything but i tried cause the coach said last one before x, and i did and i ran my neck straight into the mat. :P and we dont have many gyms in my country so i dont know where to go :( thanks for repsonding

[@xion0387]

What do you call a dojo that never give out strips or level up if you don't come Fridays? I been to a bjj dojo for a yr. and I can barley make it to Fridays. I'm already smashing 2 blue belts. Am I wasting my time?

[@bluewhale4768]

G'day Jordan - a big hello from Tasmania, Australia. Love your content and your conceptual approach to teaching. Keep up the excellent work mate.

[@mctischler533]

I agree to everything but the uniform aspect. Although I think we should be allowed to wear whatever we want to Open Mat or No Gi.

[@vibovitold]

My personal list: * Lack of punctuality. I admit I like military-grade discipline. If a class starts at 7, it starts at 7, we go off at 7:00 sharp. You come late - enjoy your push-ups. It's really frustrating when you rush to the class so as not to be late, only to find yourself sitting there in your gi for 15 minutes, wasting time as people chit-chat about their backache and what they had for lunch (and the instructor is the loudest one). There's time and place for that, but - in my example - that time isn't 7:05 and that place isn't on the mat. This is even more jarring for me now that I'm a dad, and I've got less time to spare than in the past. I know, I know, "we're a chilled out school" : ) * Monotonous warm-ups. Yes, there's a lot of exercises which are the bread and butter of BJJ warmup, and for a good reason. Still, I've been to clubs where EVERY SINGLE WARMUP was absolutely identical, down to the order of exercises. This is lazy disguised as organized, and it gets pretty boring after a while. * Techniques not matching the students' level. This is somewhat related to your "lack of teaching core concepts" and "random techniques", I'm just being more specific. I've seen white-belts shown how to go from butterfly to deep half guard to X-guard to back-take, drilling those transitions relentlessly - while they had still no idea how to maintain a simple side control for longer than 10 seconds : ) Some instructors love showing fancy stuff, in my opinion because they're just bored - but it is simple jiu-jitsu that can take you very far if you master it. Or stall your progress if you don't. Guys like Roger Gracie didn't rely on intricate moves - he would sweep, mount and cross-collar choke. If that's good enough for Roger, it may be good enough for a bloke who signed up for BJJ last month. And then I see those same white belts in a competition, frustrated like hell because they got collar-choked before they had the slightest chance of using that flashy omoplata counter-counter-counter, which they had barely remembered anyway. That's like going to a French class, and it's only your second lesson, and you're reading Baudelaire while you can barely say "good morning" yet. I realize that some clubs are too small to run a separate class for beginners, but that's not an excuse. You can demonstrate two techniques, or even conflate it by reinforcing the basic version, and throw in an optional advanced variation for the colored belts.

[@troydeville6885]

My gym has a few of these. They require a white gi, but you could buy it anywhere. We don't do warm-ups at all, and every class is 90 minutes. An hour of technique and situational rolling, then 30 minutes of free rolling. They also have some classes that are gi required, then other classes that are no gi. I don't know if this is normal?

[@tacothursdays6546]

A list of 10 video that's somehow less than 10 minutes? I appreciate you being concise and to the point. I'm beyond grateful the gym I train at does none of these.

[@scottjohnson926]

I like my gym, I’ve been going for a few weeks and everyone there is very friendly, often being more than happy to spend time after class do some rolling drills, show me what I can do, or free roll at a pace that I can spot what is happening and see where things go wrong

[@benmillan3258]

was already a fan of your content but cutting to the ITYSL hotdog skit has rlly put you over the top for me lol you the goat. #1 for me is not allowing cross training. biggest red flag possible imo

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Haha thanks man! I love that show. My wife and I quote it all the time haha

[@philphoemix]

I run a Pure Fundamentals Class that is catered to Beginners but all belts are welcome. All New Students are informed that in this particular class that there is no rolling in it and is purely a Fundamental Concepts/Techniques/Positions/Drilling etc focused class designed to explain the How? and Why? The reason we tell them ahead of time is because we offer other classes that have rolling and open mat time so it gives them the choice. Being Transparent with the Students while at the same time offering them choices in classes is important so they can choose the best suited classes to suit their learning needs, as all students learn differently.

[@APGJuggernaut]

I love this list and my two that made the list are long warm ups and long technique instruction. Long repetitive warmups makes class feel like a choir vs something I enjoy. And spot on with the long instruction. My adhd only allows me to squeeze so much in😂. A personal one for me as a big guys is being singled out for no reason. I was at a deployed location where we had free Jiu-Jitsu classes, but the instructors would vary. One of them would not allow me to start standing, or finish a submission, even against same sized, upper belts. After becoming acquainted, I've never had partners turn me down of any size, but this guy made me out to be some kinda spazzy, just bleed monster. Almost quit training until he left.

[@NoLifeBJJ]

Loved the video Jordan, definitely agree with the list, and really thankful I don't have any of the issues mentioned in the video at the gym I attend.

[@coreyhopkins4960]

every gym around me makes you buy their gear and its also my #1. the one place that doesnt, had a "wrestling wednesdays" class and warmed up for nearly half of it. im not great at shooting and so i got pulled out of warm ups, missed the technique just to practice my knee drop most of the class

[@drewm4914]

Jordan, I go to a Gracie CTC and I was wondering your thoughts on them. I have trained at multiple gyms and they do some of the things you listed like promotions based of attendance. I feel overall that the structured curriculum and being able to watch a video the same way its taught is a great way to learn, but I wanted your thoughts. Thanks :)

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Well a gym can not be perfect in every category and still excel in others to make up for it. If you enjoy it there, then keep training there :)

[@tjl4688]

Stripes are done by attendance, yes, but belts are still given out at instructor discretion even when you've filled out your 4th stripe card. There's clear expectations listed for each stripe and belt on your card, if the instructor doesn't see you developing, you're not getting that next belt. On top of that, all black belt promotions come directly from Rener and Ryron in-person. I'm not a fan of forcing white gis at HQ, though, but it's their personal school and they can do what they want.

[@BrMg01]

@@tjl4688 the last sentence...ohhhhhh shit... thats awesome!

[@vibovitold]

I've trained at multiple clubs in the UK, Poland, Germany, Italy. I've never even heard about a long-term contract (at a bjj gym), let alone charging for belt promotions : ) is this a US thing?

[@lencumbow]

Pretty good list. My school does some of the things on your list, but not to a great extent. For example, you can buy their gear or buy elsewhere. Two month cancellation (dodgy, but at least it's not a year). Seminars are hyped but not required. Dumb warmups are at least short. On the bright side, no charge for promotions. Professor encourages you to only do what you feel is personally safe and won't tolerate assholes. Random techniques (with some continuity) are taught. People are generally friendly and willing to answer questions and help you. Certain days are geared toward lower belts. Open mat days are good for trying things out and higher belts are often willing to help you learn. Overall, it's ok, and most importantly, the school is only a mile from my house and there is nothing comparable or better less than an hour away. Unless I found a much better school, I don't think I'd train at all if I had to drive more than 45 minutes.

[@tjl4688]

Gotta say, I'm very glad that my school delays people from rolling. I started at 37 years old at Humaita, hurt myself rolling a few weeks into training and had to quit. Changed schools, they made me only work on techniques and drills/simulation for several months before they let me loose with free rolling. Gave me a much better understanding of how to be calm and what to do. The young bucks may be fine rolling on day one, but the average BJJ student is bordering on middle age and hasn't trained a day in their life.

[@shootits48]

I think it’s hard not to do warm ups in an all levels class. I tried that once, while the higher belts were good, the lower belt’s didn’t understand what even bridging was. Now I’m not saying 15 minute warm ups but a simple run through of movements only takes 5 minutes give or take and will help everyone in the long run, even higher belts IMO.

[@bigmonster682001]

I'm glad that you made this video. This is needed. Much love brother.

[@SamKalhor]

my gyms banned finishing most high level leg locks what do you guys think? like knee bars toe holds and heel hooks. we still learn them thoe but are banned from finishing them in sparring.

[@Kuya_RJ]

I’m a new subscriber and a new student, this was great ! Appreciate you sir 🫡

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Thanks man! BJJ is the best. Glad you started training 🙂

[@sportsfan6554]

If I’m getting charged for a stripe I’m telling my instructor to keep the tape, I’m gonna train somewhere else

[@Jono793]

Year-long contracts are fine. So long as they represent a discount, and not a predatory thing where you're going to hound former students with debt collection letters. In the gyms I've trained at, you can sign up to pay monthly, or pay yearly up front, with a pretty deep discount. If a student needs to quit mid year, they refund the remaining months, but they treat the current quarter as though they were on the pay monthly tariff. I think that's the fairest solution as the gym isn't out of pocket, and the student isn't screwed by life circumstances.

[@BLMann]

Id love to see a video of you outlining what criteria you use to determine when to promote people.

[@JK-74]

Closing in on 175k subscribers... you're in the home stretch now! 👏👍👊 Good video Jordan! 😀

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Thanks man! So close. My goal for 2023 was 200k. I'm going to work hard to make that happen 🙂

[@halfman58]

I am 100% agree with your list. Awesome vid. I hope my coach watches this. Everything about this dojo that I am going it good except for 10min silly warm ups at the start and long technique times about 45 to 60min. To the point that I keep on checking the time. Thankfully, I follow my own study path and working on my own game for a while and developing that. thanks again for the vid.

[@gilberttiborjakub9890]

I started BJJ at ZR Team (you know the "separatist Gracie Barra affiliation") in December 2017 and got my blue belt in November 2019. At ZR Team, no one cares where you train. During the COVID years I trained inconsistently, but I made some progress (although I never considered stripes as a measure of progress, I got two in 2020-2022). Then, due to a serious change in the health of my beloved, I skipped almost 1.5 years. I made my comeback in February this year, it was hard, but I am getting used to it. Then in July we moved to another place where the only club available was a Carlson Gracie Academy. I called the instructor and explained the situation: I am 40 years old, hobbyist but athletic blue belt, I do not plan to compete under the umbrella of any club, I just want to continue my training. He replied that he was only a purple belt under the mentorship of a 2nd degree black belt, so he had to consult with his master. Then he said I could attend classes, but they wouldn't allow me to wear the blue. Since I consider myself less ego-driven than someone who doesn't accept this condition, I joined them about a month ago. White belt, no stripes, but as a "legitimate sandbagger". It's kind of embarrassing in a way, because I can catch all their blue belts and even some of the purple ones. The Carlson guys strictly forbid cross-training, and the whole mentality is a bit "cultish", but on the plus side, I get to keep training. On weekends I secretly drive 1.5 hours to go to the open mats of my club because I really miss them and to be honest they are much more technical than my current club... What do you think about this situation?

[@songbird11332]

Leave that team this is ridiculous

[@gilberttiborjakub9890]

@@songbird11332 believe me I would be happy to leave this nonsenses but there is no any alternative in a managable distance.

[@CBraxton]

The gym I go to has a one year initial contract. After that, it’s month to month. Doesn’t do any of the others including honorable mentions. We do a short warm up (which I like) and very rarely in the fundamentals class we don’t have time to roll. Often, the Professor will keep the gym open late so we can if that happens. Great list.

[@Jiu-JitsuJourney257]

My coach is amazing and his family is very warm and caring. I am truly grateful for my gym. Been with him from white, to now purple.

[@christopherstephens1129]

Jordan I truly respect you, I wish I could train with you physically, I would improve my BJJ much faster and more efficient. I think white belts should only be trained by black belts, the reason, I consistently encounter other belts using white belts as a practice dummy to improve their BJJ. The other issue is pricing, 50 dollars for belt promotions, gear, Instructors pander to the female students and demoralizing the men, Instructors pretending to be righteous yet profess concerning comments, etc.

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Thanks man 🙏 I'm sure you'd enjoy my gym. None of that stuff goes on. Culture and expectations are always set from the top. I like to keep my gym chill just my KZbin videos 🙂

[@christopherstephens1129]

@@JordanTeachesJiujitsu Right on Jordan, where is you’re gym located?

[@Nepthu]

The only thing I dont like at my gym is how there are cliques on the matt. When I approach blue belts or higher whites to roll, they look away, walk off or give an excuse. I roll with the same 10 or so guys over and over. Half the class thinks they're above working with us.

[@RamseyDewey]

It's a great list Jordan. If anyone is offended at this, they deserve it.

[@circadianmma]

Paying for the belt promotions is a big one for me. I avoid the promotions for that very reason. If I’m ranked up I would prefer it to be by merit, otherwise I might as well as buy my own belt online. I’m also doing this recreationally, I don’t have any plans to compete, so I don’t see a point in getting promoted anyways.

[@MrGatsu]

Impatient instructors is a big one for me. I’m a bit of a slow learner so I had experiences of instructors and coaches getting frustrated and yelling at me for doing techniques wrong or not knowing what to do.

[@MrPigeonnn]

My gym does at least two of these things. At least when it comes to the Gi, it has to be the academy's. They also promote based on attendance instead of merit. I would prefer to be tested for my belt. What do you think of testing for belts? The kids have to be tested but it's not much of a test. A take down, mount, then arm bar. Unfortunately, there are not many gyms around my area. Most of them look like a McDojo.

[@kenaikyoshi416]

After watching this video, I feel blessed to train at Imanari JJ academy in Tokyo, Japan. It's the best

[@laugustyn]

We have an instructor that teaches one day a week and even though its fundamental stuff, theres zero time to roll afterwards and its just the most frustrating thing ever. I've switched focus from "learning" to helping brand new white belts get the grasp of the techniques and concepts. All is good but it does get frustrating when you don't feel like you're progressing at all

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

So annoying. I hate when gyms think of rolling like an afterthought. Like class is over, roll if you want. We want to do the actual sport we're learning FFS lol

[@laugustyn]

@@JordanTeachesJiujitsu especially if there’s another class, like boxing, that happens straight after. Not to mention this instructor likes to tell stories of him being a bouncer back in the 80s during class. I once timed his “speech” over the whole 1 hour class and it came in at 15min of unnecessary stories that have no relevance. That being said, the rest of the classes and instructors we have are excellent but like… come on man, save the stories for the change room

[@mohamedspeaks]

hey jordan can you do video to show how do you run a class in your gym

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Ya definitely

[@af4396]

For warm ups, it depends. If you're just doing like a "gym workout" or push ups and sit ups, stuff like that, then that's nonsense. Buuttt, if you're doing BJJ movement drills, partner drills and challenges (like what we call "around the world", where you climb around your partner using all your hooks while they keep their balance) then I think it's both fun and useful. Plus, doing things like break falls often is just a good idea, not only to make sure you're doing them properly, but that you're building that muscle memory for both sparring and real life slips.

[@jesuslopes5982]

I have been watching your channel for a long time only to realize that I have not subscribed. Amazing content as usual. You have got yourself a new subscriber. I hope I get to visit your gym someday. All the best and thanks for sharing your knowledge. Osu!

[@r8m8s8]

Wish I could train again (chronic lower back pain stopped me) and if I could train at your gym!

[@Jitsover50]

Summed up perfectly! Agreed on every point.

[@bye64476]

You should make a full video on the mouth smother submission!

[@justinmoore9526]

I’m so happy I joined a good gym to start. Basically none of these issues. Uniform policy for grading and comps but that’s it and not unreasonable to be honest

[@chetfreeland1920]

The worst is kicking students out for cross training

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Yepp super lame

[@tomtrader6559]

Last competition as a white belt after 1.5 years of training i had a guy in semifinal who trained for 4 years!

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

So lame. As a blue belt I competed against a former white belt world champion. He had been a white Belt 4-5 years before being promoted. He was a whitebelt longer than I had even been training lol, wtf. Still kicked his ass though 💪

[@charles9571]

​@@JordanTeachesJiujitsuhe probably didn't want to be a white belt.

[@cigijovanovic7216]

I totally agree with you on every point. It's so hard to find a good Jiu Jitsu Gym. I'm suffering.

[@Tnfisher88]

I played team sports growing up and have to wear a uniform to work so the buying gis thing isn’t an issue for me. I’ve trained at other places who don’t have a team Gi and guys complain that they have a shitty gi and rips and tears after very little training. When looking for a gym I was more worried about the instructor and class schedule not what I could wear.

[@jaredoverholtzer2577]

Seems about right to me. I agree with everything you are saying for sure! Good video.

[@LeviDocs]

I’m brand new to jujitsu. Only complaint I have so far is that they don’t really have a beginners course or anything of the sort. I’ve been sort of forced to learn basics such as my guard,elbow escapes protecting my head etc through KZbin or listening to the instructor tell other people. Seems like a way to potentially funnel people intro privates. At the same time I’m one of the few white belts. Most guys are purple/blue.

[@herschelsquirts2338]

I studied kenpo karate for 4 years when I was a teenager back in the early 90’s and our school did pretty much all of these things. My instructor was an extremely insecure man. 😂

[@gunnar2460]

I share exactly the Same Point of View in ervery component Most of my mates as w ll. Sadly our gym has sone of those issues. Especially moneywise, graduation Fee basedon belt Rank, 2 year contracts, slight Problems with Cross Training and a Lot of shrimping.

[@elsuperpollo2273]

I was training at a gym to train in Muay Thai kickboxing and they kept pushing me to also train in BJJ. Why I'm more into Muay Thai, Filipino kali escrima and shooting firearms. respectfully I declined and I kept getting annoy cause they still kept bugging me to go BJJ and I got locked into a big contract with stupid policy's thirty day notices, and they still charged my card I ended up cancelling my card and got a new one, now I just use a ecredit card, so if the gym pulls some crap I'll just turn off my card and get another and cancel it by turning off a credit card lol.

[@pizza7975]

what’s your opinion on All Levels class rather than a fundamental class (white belt) and a intermediate/advanced class

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

I prefer it because I don't think there's actually that many techniques that are advanced. Also ensures everyone can train together as it can be dangerous to separate the white belts where can only roll with eachother. If i want to show something that's actually advanced, I'll teach it, plus give an option for the beginners to do.

[@patrickwalsh5153]

I’ve been a blue belt since 2012. Even after showing up to class consistently and winning four tournaments in four weeks, I couldn’t get promoted. Now I don’t compete in BJJ because it’s too easy to smash other blue belts and instead I compete in Judo, which actually does promote based on skills.

[@Noah-jy8wb]

Instructors not really creating a safe and learning environment..which translates in anxious studente after a technique is shown...not asking questions ( because feeling fearfull/stupid..or instructor does not like it)

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

Yepp it's so dumb. Gotta keep people safe and healthy so they can actually train. They're doing themselves a disservice financially, and in terms of gym culture. And doing students a disservice by not protecting from potential life long injuries.

[@EnderMB]

Great video, as always! I'd love to know what your view of unqualified instructors is. Would you consider a beginner class taught by a non-competitive purple belt as unqualified, or do you specifically mean when people inflate/mislead their rank?

[@JordanTeachesJiujitsu]

I think it comes down to the individual rather than belts. There's many blackbelts who suck at teaching, and many that aren't even very good at jiujitsu. There's also blue belts that are great teachers. Some gyms just throw a higher belt on the mat to teach even if they're terrible. I'd rather a good blue belt teaching than a crappy black belt.

[@amosmj]

My gym does academy gis and I kind of like it. I liked that on day one they said here is what you where and handed me the gi. I have seen other guys spend over a thousand of dollars on gis and clothes. I do own an non-academy gi that I wear when I travel and I can't say that I'm any better off for it. I understand that for some people not getting to collect gis is a buzz kill but I honestly think that it's a net positive for me.

[@HardTard]

I guess I'm naive, but I was surprised to see how many of the points on this list my judo group is guilty of. I was already dissatisfied but you eliminated any doubts I had about leaving.