*on the right is an image of what actual instructor stripes look like. The black belt pictured has no affiliation with the story. The purple belt’s academy is not publicly confirmed
In an unusual development at a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy, a purple belt instructor received a distinctive recognition – instructor stripes on their belt, sparking discussion within the BJJ community about evolving traditions.
This non-traditional promotion has generated considerable debate among practitioners, with many noting that instructor or “professor” bars are typically reserved for black belt level instructors in traditional BJJ ranking systems.
“This is not common when looking at traditional BJJ ranking. Those are ‘professor’ bars, not instructor. A red patch would mean instructor. Technically you can’t be a professor until you get your black belt,” explained one experienced practitioner.
However, as BJJ continues to grow globally, some schools are adopting modified approaches to recognize teaching contributions. The purple belt instructor in question helps lead foundational classes at their academy, a role that typically comes with practical benefits like complimentary membership rather than monetary compensation.
“I coach the foundations class at my gym and essentially I just got a free membership,” shared the instructor, who received the distinctive marking.
Some academies have established their own unique traditions. One practitioner noted seeing a dark blue belt used for purple belt instructors at a traditional Brazilian academy, worn specifically during teaching sessions.
While opinions vary on this modern adaptation, several veterans emphasized that teaching ability and mat performance remain the true measures of an instructor’s worth. As one seasoned practitioner advised: “Try to teach people well and help them have a great time in this stupid game.”
The development highlights the ongoing evolution of BJJ traditions as the sport continues to expand internationally, with different academies finding new ways to recognize contributing members while maintaining technical standards.
