Stripes

[rancor2000]

I just started Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and I was wondering how long it takes to usually earn your first stripes, and where do you earn them at? I practice 2 or 3 times a week with 2 hour sessions. I know that my local BJJ place does not award them. I think the instructor mentioned earning them at seminars/tournaments in bigger cities. Also, what is a good way to practice the basic moves that I've learned, without rolling? I won't be rolling for awhile because I have a urinary tract infection. Thanks for your answers!

- James Conlin

[Antares33]

There is a good bit of discussion about stripes on this thread:
http://www.budoseek.net/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=6213

It seems that the use of stripes in BJJ is far less universal than belt color.

[Sean Reilly]

I am not really sure about Brazil, the US or anywhere else where the wonderful MA of BJJ is practiced :D but here in Australia within the Machado Clan we earn stripes on all belts.

Some schools give them out when the instructor just sees fit and some have official gradings with certain techniques and levels of proficiency needing to be demonstrated.

White has 4 stripes
Blue has 3
Purple has 2
Brown has 2

I am guessing these are more about keeping the student interested and on track; a business decision to a degree. And lets face it, there is absolutely nothing wrong with that just as long as you are proficient to your graded level.

Mind you some of the Ronin types never put their stripes on their belts. That whole COOL thing I guess.

Cheers



Sean