If you’ve started Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you’ve probably heard a word used often: OSS. In BJJ, you'll say it before rolling and at the end of training sessions to show respect. But what does it mean, and why is it important in the BJJ community? OSS in martial arts refers to a term that expresses respect, perseverance, and readiness, and it has different cultural meanings depending on the context.

Key Takeaways:

• In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the term OSS is a symbol of perseverance and acknowledgement, and using it shows reverence for your art and your fellow practitioners.
• OSS combines “Onegai Shimasu” (a respectful request) and “Oshi Shinobu” ( which means to endure under pressure) from Japanese culture.
• It shows respect between students, teachers, and opponents.
• OSS reflects the martial arts lineage from Samurai to the foundations of BJJ via Mitsuyo Maeda and Helio Gracie.
• In competitions, OSS sets the tone and shows sportsmanship at the end – whether you win, lose, or draw.

What Does the Term OSS Mean?

OSS is a greeting that symbolizes perseverance and mutual acknowledgment in martial arts that originated in Japan, such as karate, judo, and Kyokushin Karate. It is also used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. But what does it mean when you translate it?

OSS comes from two traditional Japanese phrases:

• Onegai Shimasu – a polite request that is often used before training or sparring. It shows mutual respect between fighters.
  
• Oshi Shinobu –  means to persevere while you are pushed.

In Japanese martial arts culture, OSS is sometimes written or pronounced as ‘osu’, reflecting its origins and versatile use as a display of spirit and perseverance.

Saying OSS can also be a way for practitioners to show they understand instructions or acknowledge their partner.

When you participate in a BJJ event or competition, you’ll hear OSS echoing around the venue. The term OSS is also used when speaking to coaches and referees, as a sign of integrity and sportsmanship.

To get involved, you can find local BJJ tournaments or events through community boards, gyms, or online resources. We've written a simple guide if you're new to the sport and wondering what Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is.

Origins: From Samurai to Submissions

Originally, OSS was used between Samurai warriors to show honor to one another. Miyamoto Musashi, the legendary swordsman, emphasized focus, which OSS reminds you about every time you step onto the mat.

You can trace the story of Brazilian jiu-jitsu back to Japanese martial arts, specifically Judo and traditional Jiu-Jitsu. This story starts with Mitsuyo Maeda, who brought his Judo and grappling expertise to Brazil, where he taught Helio Gracie. Gracie developed the martial art into what we recognize today as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. BJJ was designed to empower smaller people to defend themselves against larger opponents.

OSS in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

In Brazilian jiu-jitsu, OSS has a broader meaning. It celebrates hard work, acknowledges your training partners, and reminds you about the self-control you need to develop your own strategy. When you step into competition or a drill, saying OSS is an abbreviated way to acknowledge and remember these principles.

These are traits that develop over time, when you’re grappling in men's kimonos or men's no-gi, learning how to master the omoplata BJJ, or how to tie your BJJ belt correctly for the first time. Training in BJJ helps improve your balance and coordination, so you can master techniques and move efficiently.

To progress in BJJ, you need determination, as you push through challenges and setbacks. Before rolls (live sparring sessions), OSS is exchanged as a sign of respect and readiness.

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The Role of OSS in Training

You’ll hear it in your daily practice, when:

• Students (including children and adults) bow on the mat. This shows how inclusive the BJJ community is
• When BJJ practitioners greet or thank their partners
• A tough round has ended, and practitioners nod to one another, showing mutual respect
  
• Instructors teach a new concept or position to develop students’ skills
  

OSS is a mindset that reminds you of the traditions of Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

Life Lessons from OSS and BJJ

Outside of the mat, OSS BJJ culture also offers valuable life lessons:

• Discipline: Showing up on time, training consistently, and pushing through your discomfort
  
• Respect: Say OSS as you bow to your instructor, thank your partners, and listen before you speak
  
• Self-confidence: As you progress, you build inner belief that extends far beyond the dojo.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can also help people cope with depression and improve overall mental health. Training helps develop both inner and physical strength. It empowers practitioners regardless of their natural abilities.

Final Thoughts

OSS is more than a word. It’s a form of acknowledgment in BJJ, a respectful bow to tradition, and a nod to your training partner. Saying OSS is a sign of your understanding and readiness in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. 

In a world where egos can get the better of us, OSS keeps us grounded. It reminds us that martial arts teach humility and honor. Next time you’re on the mat, say OSS with meaning. Let it echo the values of the BJJ community.