To answer the original question, yes there is such thing as a pink belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. We’re not on about a faded purple belt either! Although this belt is quite a rare sight, it does exist in certain circles. The origins of the pink belt came from the Gracie Jiu Jitsu academy that was founded by Rener Gracie.
In brief, the idea of the belt is centered around BJJ self defense techniques that are specifically tailored towards women. Because of this, you can sometimes see women wearing a pink belt such as Eve Gracie, the wife of Rener. Generally speaking, men would never wear a pink belt under this organization nor is there such a belt in the IBJJF ruleset for either sex.
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What is the difference between the pink belt and other BJJ belts?
Overall, the belt is more of a mark of status rather than a belt that signifies a certain rank. For instance, it could be worn by a white belt or even a higher colored belt if it was desired by the owner to do so. According to the Gracie University website, it is worn by women who have learnt ’20 essential techniques’ from the Gracie course. This ranges “From hair-grabs and choke-holds, to bear hugs and weapon defenses, the Women Empowered program covers it all”. Because of this, it is also referred to as the ‘Women Empowered program’ belt by some people.
Is the pink belt needed?
This is an open question with no right or wrong answer. On the one hand, you can’t legally compete wearing the belt at most recognized competitions. It should also be added that due to its ambiguous nature, it doesn’t really show the rank of the person wearing it. Not only this, but the vast majority of gyms will not use the pink belt and away from the Gracie University it isn’t really that widely known.
However, the Gracie University has always done things differently and caters to more of a self defensive audience rather than most sports-based BJJ gyms. With this said, it’s a specific dress code under their set up rather than a mainstream standard of uniform. Regardless of its origins or meaning, we’ll let you decide on whether it’s necessary or not.
Closing thoughts on the pink belt
The pink belt can be summarized as a belt color that is exclusive to the Gracie Jiu Jitsu academy and isn’t really recognized elsewhere. The belt is designed for women to wear that have passed the Gracie University course which focuses on empowering women through teaching practical elements of self defense.
If pink is your color then try this Fuji gi out. It is not only bright pink, but also with Fuji you know it’s great quality too.
