Quick answer: Sensei simply means teacher. The right title depends on the academy culture, and most instructors are happy to clarify.
Updated December 2025 | Sensei Sandy BJJ | Tannersville, NY
BJJ sensei meaning and why the title exists
Sensei is a Japanese term used across martial arts like Judo, Karate, and Aikido. In plain English, it means teacher.
Literally, the characters translate to "one who went before." It does not mean master or idol. It simply recognizes someone who has walked the path and can guide you safely through it.
BJJ sensei vs professor vs coach
BJJ culture is a blend of Japanese roots and Brazilian innovation. That is why you will hear a mix of titles across gyms.
- Professor: Portuguese for teacher, common for black belts in Brazilian lineage schools.
- Coach: Common in no-gi and MMA settings, and often used for instructors below black belt.
- Sensei: Used in academies that honor traditional lineage or emphasize structure.
- First name: Typical in casual or modern training environments.
BJJ instructor etiquette without the awkwardness
Walking into your first class? Do not overthink the honorifics. Use this simple guide:
- Read the room: Listen to how senior students address the instructor.
- When in doubt, ask: "What do you prefer to be called?" is respectful.
- Coach is the safety valve: Almost no instructor will be offended by coach.
Why Sensei Sandy in the Catskills
You might wonder why we use sensei when many BJJ academies use professor. The title signals our teaching philosophy right in the name.
- Respect for roots: We honor the traditional martial arts origin of discipline and structure.
- Teacher first: Sensei emphasizes guidance and mentorship, not ego.
- Accessibility: Sensei is a familiar word for teacher, which helps beginners in Tannersville and Kingston feel welcome.
BJJ sensei FAQs
Is it disrespectful to call a BJJ instructor sensei?
No. While professor is more common in Brazilian lineage schools, sensei is a respectful term for a teacher. The best move is to follow the local academy culture.
What do I call a brown or purple belt instructor?
Usually coach. Titles like professor are typically reserved for black belts. Coach plus a first name is the safest, most respectful option.
What if I mess up the title?
Do not worry. A good instructor knows you are new and will politely correct you. If someone gets angry about a title on Day 1, that is a red flag.