The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle extends beyond the world of competition; it is a way of life that incorporates the art of self-defense to promote individual growth of the body, mind and soul through dedication, perseverance, growth, respect, loyalty, gratefulness, brotherhood/sisterhood, leadership and unity. In turn, this art gives much back to the dedicated instructors and their students as it encourages changes in the everyday lifestyle that impacts understandings of friendship, familial bonds, health and morals.
The Silva Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association holds its members to the highest standards as it upholds the core principles of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle.
- Dedication – Acknowledging that success requires hard and continuous training, in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, repetition makes perfect.
- Perseverance – Understanding that growth consists of both success and struggles and appreciating the overall experience as an opportunity for greater growth.
- Continuous Self-improvement and Growth – Instructors shall reinforce that Jiu-Jitsu is a lifelong journey with commitment to growth as Jiu-Jitsu practitioners and human beings. The black belt should be a minimum goal.
- Respect – No discrimination of any kind is tolerated on or off the mat. Every member is expected to show the utmost respect for themselves and others regardless of race, creed, nationality, etc. Every member is reminded of the hierarchy of the art and respect toward higher belts is mandatory.
- Loyalty – The understanding that the optimal relationship between teacher, student and peer is one in which there is a shared allegiance to one another that is built on trust and reliability through time.
- Gratefulness – The understanding and appreciation for life on and off the mat, discovering the art of Jiu-Jitsu, growth and for those who teach you through instruction or practice in Jiu-Jitsu and in life.
- Brotherhood/Sisterhood – A belief and feeling of unity and cooperation among the men and women who are part of our team.
- Leadership – It is necessary that the right type of leadership style be present for a strong brotherhood/sisterhood to exist that promotes positive learning and growth. Attitude must always be positive and cooperative in order to strengthen the growth of our team, putting the team in front of individual, selfish needs, so that this attitude is mirrored by our students and community.
- Unity, Representation & Pride – It is important to develop and maintain a strong sense of unity and pride amongst our team, both at individual schools and across our association. Traditions, knowledge of our team history and lineage, chants and slogans, social media, uniforms or team merchandise are some of the ways that a sense of team, unity and pride can be built.