Has anyone decided the “official” name for someone who trains in Jiu jitsu? I like jitsuka, mainly because it follows the same rules as judoka: whatever you do, add a “ka” at the end. It’s also a nod to its Japanese roots.
But, there is also the whole Brazilian past, and present influence. Lutador has been thrown around, but mainly on clothing. I’m not in love with it, but it could work.
Should we all follow in Ralek’s example and call ourselves “G’s in gi’s?” (in case you’re wondering, the appropriate answer is no).
Let me know what you think!
A Skirt on the Mat 
The Japanese guys I used to train with always translated the “ka” into “player” so I call them jiu jitsu players. Or “BJJ guys.” My professor seems to like to call all of us “mutuca,” though, so apparently we’re all just slackers.
I really like jitsuka. I have to be honest, though. After two months of training, I still feel so clueless and out of it that I have a hard time identifying as someone who trains jiu jitsu. Does that make sense? Did you ever feel that way?
Hi there, sorry for taking so long to reply. It really boils down to it just taking time. Unless you were born into it, I think most people feel that way when starting out in jiu jitsu. But as time goes on, as you take more classes, compete in tournaments, you’ll develop lasting friendships and bonds with people in your academy and around the world. These people, these experiences will leave an indelible impression on you, and one day you will realize that all of this is just a part of who you are. Starting something new is one of the hardest, but most exciting times in your life: if you can, stick with it and be open to all the new experiences. If you have any other questions, or just want to talk about how training’s going, feel free to come back, or email me: thatclassybroad at gmail dot com. And welcome to the jiu jitsu community!
I’ve heard ‘jiu jiteiro’, ‘jiu-jitsuka’, ‘jiu jitsu player’ and various others. I normally just say “BJJer”, though that does sound kinda clunky and looks odd written down.
I’ve always been dumb enough to call us dice, as we just roll around like so many cubes out of a backgammon cup.
Honestly though, I just ask if the person “rolls” — I’ve never thought of a serious term outside of students.