BJJ PROTECTION

Ear guards are strongly recommended for anyone who trains BJJ regularly. Cauliflower ear is caused by repeated trauma to the ear during grappling and can develop quickly in practitioners who roll frequently. Ear guards significantly reduce this risk and are particularly important for beginners whose ears are not yet conditioned to regular contact. Many experienced grapplers wear ear guards as a precaution even after years of training.

For BJJ, a low-profile gum shield that allows easy breathing during intense rolling is ideal. The SISU slim-fit guard is popular with grapplers as it is thin enough to allow normal breathing and communication while still providing strong protection. A quality boil and bite guard from Opro is a great value alternative. Avoid bulky traditional guards that restrict breathing during ground work.

The most effective way to prevent cauliflower ear in BJJ is to wear ear guards during every training session, particularly during live rolling and sparring. If you notice swelling or fluid build-up in your ear after training, seek medical advice promptly as early treatment can prevent permanent deformity. Some practitioners also drain the ear themselves, but this should only be done by a medical professional.

The most commonly needed joint support in BJJ is for the knees, ankles, elbows and fingers. Knee sleeves provide compression and warmth for the knee joint during ground work and guard play. Ankle supports help stabilise the ankle during leg lock exchanges. Elbow sleeves protect against hyperextension. Finger tape is essential for protecting the small joints and tendons in the fingers, which are particularly vulnerable during gi grappling.