Does your Jiu Jitsu lineage matter? Yes to some. No to others. The answer will be different for everyone, depending on their personal beliefs. Overall, it’s not who is in your Jiu Jitsu family tree but that you have one. Imagine training under a black belt who gave themself a black belt. You see the problem here. Your Professor should still be learning and improving their game to teach you and improve your game.
What is Jiu Jitsu lineage?
Belt lineage is who your Professors got their black belt from and hopefully one day, who you will get your black belt from. Think of it as a family tree.
What is the lineage at HAMA?
Mitsuyo Maeda > Carlos Gracie > Helio Gracie > Carlos Gracie Jr. > Renzo Gracie > Amal Easton > Cody Donovan
Head Jiu Jitsu instructor, Cody Donovan, is a 3 stripe black belt under Amal Easton and has been a black belt for 9 years.
Why is Jiu Jitsu belt lineage important?
Notable lineage can confirm the legitimacy of your academy. Your roots can be traced back to Jiu Jitsu greats who have impacted the sport. Self proclaimed black belts have been rocking the Jiu Jitsu world especially after YouTube was invented. You want to know you are learning real Jiu Jitsu from seasoned instructors. Not self taught YouTube stars. While you may learn some cool moves and it is quite innovative, Jiu Jitsu itself is an old age martial art. There are traditions and such that should continue to be passed down.
Most black belts are registered with IBJJF. If your Professor is not listed there, it could just mean they did not go through the lengthy process of registering and getting approved. Some academies may not follow IBJJF rules.
Some people believe belt lineage is important because having a well known and respected reputation matters to them and can attract people to your academy. What’s really important is culture and skill. Having a strong lineage is like having quality control. You know the curriculum and technique are legit.
We think it’s important to know where you come from but no lineage is better than others. Just be a good person, train hard, and share the Jiu Jitsu love.
