In the world of martial arts, skill alone does not define a great teacher. Instead, it is the values they embody, both on and off the mat, that shape the learning environment and the growth of their students. One of the most essential values in the culture of jujutsu is *helpfulness*. This concept goes beyond mere instruction—it is about fostering an environment of mutual support, respect, and growth. For many, the embodiment of this value is seen in the legacy of Helio Gracie, one of the founding figures of Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
The Etymology and Origin of Helpfulness
To fully grasp the importance of helpfulness, it's enlightening to look at the word's origins. The word "help" derives from Old English *helpan*, which means "to assist or support," and traces even further back to the Proto-Germanic *helpanan*, implying a deeper sense of nurturing and providing aid in times of need. From these roots, helpfulness evolved into a trait recognized universally—offering assistance to others not just out of obligation but from a place of genuine care and compassion.
In martial arts, particularly jujutsu through the VBMethod, this sense of helpfulness is magnified. The word *jujutsu* itself means “the art of yielding” or “gentle art,” which already implies that the practitioner finds strength not in overpowering but in adapting and guiding energy. This principle translates to teaching, where helpfulness involves more than technical instruction—it is about yielding to the needs of the student and guiding them through their unique learning journey.
Helio Gracie and the Value of Helpfulness
Helio Gracie, a legendary figure in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, is renowned not only for his revolutionary adaptations of traditional jujutsu techniques but also for the values he instilled in his students. One of those was the importance of helpfulness. Helio believed that true mastery in jiu-jitsu was not only in physical prowess but in the ability to uplift others.
Helio famously adapted jiu-jitsu to emphasize leverage and technique over brute strength, making it accessible to smaller individuals. In doing so, he demonstrated a profound helpfulness, making the art inclusive for anyone, regardless of size or physical power. He understood that each student brought their own challenges, whether physical, mental, or emotional, and it was the teacher’s role to help students unlock their own potential.
In interviews, Helio often spoke about the responsibility of a jiu-jitsu teacher. For him, the role of an instructor extended beyond the mat. Teachers were not merely disseminators of techniques; they were mentors, role models, and guides. Helpfulness, in this context, was crucial in building trust, fostering growth, and ultimately creating a strong community.
Helpfulness as a Pillar of School Culture
For a jujutsu school to thrive, helpfulness needs to be an integral part of its culture. When students see instructors going above and beyond to support their progress, they are encouraged to do the same for their peers. This creates a cycle of mutual respect. welfare and benefit which comes through in the value Benevolence from the 753 code. this is essential for the development of any martial artist.
- Building Confidence: By embodying helpfulness, teachers provide the emotional and technical support students need to gain confidence. A helpful instructor takes the time to break down techniques for students struggling with specific moves. They show patience and offer encouragement, which in turn nurtures a student’s self-belief.
- Fostering Community: When helpfulness is at the heart of a jujutsu school’s culture, it extends beyond the teacher-student relationship. Students begin to help each other, creating a close-knit community. The school becomes a space where everyone feels supported, and that sense of camaraderie translates into better learning experiences for all involved.
- Teaching Respect: Another value from the 753 Code and Jujutsu is about respect—respect for oneself, one’s opponents, and one’s teachers. Helpfulness is a practical way to teach this respect. A teacher who is willing to assist students demonstrates the humility to share knowledge and the wisdom to know that teaching is as much about giving as it is about receiving. In this way, students learn to appreciate the value of helping others.
How to Cultivate Helpfulness as a Teacher
Being a helpful jujutsu instructor isn’t just about offering guidance during practice; it’s about instilling a mindset of support and service. Here are a few ways to cultivate helpfulness as a teacher:
1. Lead by Example: Students will mirror the behavior of their instructor. Show them that helping others is a core part of training. This can be as simple as offering extra time to a student who’s struggling or pairing advanced students with beginners so they can learn from each other.
2. Create a Safe Learning Environment: Make it clear that the school is a space for learning, not judgment. Students should feel comfortable asking for help, knowing that their questions or struggles are a natural part of the learning process.
3. Encourage Peer Support: Promote a culture where students help each other, both during and outside of class. When students feel like they are part of a supportive community, their progress accelerates, and their sense of belonging strengthens.
4. Celebrate Acts of Helpfulness: Recognize students who go out of their way to help others. This positive reinforcement helps embed helpfulness in the culture of the school.
Helpfulness is more than a teaching technique; it’s a fundamental value that shapes the culture of a jujutsu school. Helio Gracie understood the importance of this value, and his approach to teaching emphasized the need for compassion, patience, and support. A teacher who embraces helpfulness not only becomes a better instructor but also fosters an environment where students feel valued and supported, allowing them to grow both as martial artists and individuals. In the end, the true success of a jujutsu teacher is measured not just in how well their students perform but in how they help them navigate their own unique paths in life and on the mat. Please join us at Self Defense Academy COS where we help to foster the belief that YOU Are Worth Defending!
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Thought of the moment: "A hundred times every day I remind myself that my inner and
outer life depend on the labors of other people, living and dead, and that I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am still receiving." - Albert Einstein
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