[formatted for printing by Transfighters Toronto]

Are you a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu coach with a transgender student? If you’re reading this, it means you’re looking for advice on how to support them at your gym, and we’re grateful that you’re here.

The Short Version:

1. Use the student’s pronouns openly & casually, so that others will follow suit (but don’t out them).

2. Watch your trans student’s demeanor & body language while they’re training, and ask them often about their training experience.

3. Be genuine in your support of their training and goals, make them feel included instead of just tolerated for being a paying student.

You can focus on those 3 things as a start. If you’re ready for more specific advice, read on.

Table of Contents:

1. Lead by Example
2. Connect with Students
3. Manage Conflict
4. Handling Dysphoria
5. Changing Rooms
6. Pronouns / Names
7. Competitions