How to Tell Your Rolling Partner They Stink (Without Getting Arm barred)

Jiu-Jitsu is all about respect, trust, and personal growth-but let's be real, some of our training partners could use a little... olfactory improvement. We've all been there—trapped under side control, gasping for air, and suddenly realizing that the real opponent isn't their pressure, it's their personal hygiene. But how do you tell someone they reek without making things awkward? Don't worry, we've got you covered with some fun (but effective) ways to handle this delicate situation.

1. The Subtle Hint Approach

  • Gift them a fancy soap, body spray, or deodorant and say, "I saw this and thought ofyou!"
  • Casually mention how great it feels to shower before training: "Man, nothing beats that clean, fresh feeling when you step on the mats!"
  • Suggest a fun team challenge: "Let's all level up our game-and our scent! Daily showers before training, who's in?"

2. The Direct (but Tactful) Approach

If subtlety isn't your thing, try being direct but lighthearted:

  • "Hey man, I love rolling with you, but I think your gi is evolving into its own life form. Maybe it's time for a deep clean?"
  • "Bro, I respect your commitment to the grind, but your armpits just hit me with a rear-naked choke. We need a game plan for that."
  • "If our training smells like victory, your gi smells like defeat. Let's fix that."

3. The Funny (but Effective) Approach

Make it a joke to keep things lighthearted:

  • "Dude, if bad smells counted as submissions, you'd be a 10th-degree black belt."
  • "I just tapped, but not because of the chokebecause I needed fresh air!"
  • "You ever hear the legend of the haunted gi? It smells just like yours right now."

4. The Group Hygiene Initiative

If the problem extends beyond one person, make it a team effort:

  • Implement a "Fresh Gi" rule: No unwashed gis allowed on the mat.
  • Start a post-training hygiene discussion: "What's everyone's favorite soap for after training?"
  • Have your coach do a friendly reminder: "Hygiene is part of respect. Let's keep things clean and fresh, folks!"

5. The Anonymous PSA Method

If all else fails, go full ninja mode:

  • Print out a funny, anonymous flyer: "Your Training Partner Secretly Wants You to Shower."
  • Send an anonymous message: "Dude, someone in the gym might have a little odor issue. Just looking out for you!"
  • Leave a bar of soap in their gym bag like a secret gift from the universe.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, Jiu-Jitsu is about community, and communities thrive when we look out for each other-including in the smell department. Don't be afraid to speak up with humor and kindness. Now we want to hear from you: what's the funniest (or most effective) way you've addressed hygiene in the gym? Drop your stories in the comments and share this article on your social media pages—we all know someone who needs to read this!

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