Do you know what cauliflower ears are? Those swollen ears that Jiu-jitsu or Grappling practitioners have? I'll tell you one thing... not ALL practitioners have them. And you've probably noticed something curious: some people on the mat wear their cauliflower ears as a badge of honor, while others do everything they can to prevent them. But what does it really mean to have them? Are they a symbol of pride or an unnecessary risk?
We are going to answer these questions and others that have surely crossed your mind if you are worried about how your ears will feel after training... and we will tell you how to protect them!
If I have flexible ears I won't get cauliflower ears...
In sports like BJJ and Grappling, these injuries occur when the ears get caught in a kimono, receive pressure during a takedown, or constantly rub against the mat or the opponent's body. If not treated quickly (such as by draining them properly), the blood solidifies, leaving the ears with that swollen, hardened appeareance and a texture similar to that of...yes, a cauliflower.
Having more "floppy" ears does not prevent cauliflower ear . The flexibility of the skin or cartilage is not a factor that prevents this type of injury. Cauliflower ear occurs when there is direct trauma or repetitive friction on the ear, causing the cartilage to separate from the skin and blood to accumulate between the two layers.
So what can you actually do to prevent them ? Here are the best practices:
ā 1. The best prevention is using earguards
The most effective way is to use specialized earguards for BJJ, Grappling or MMA during training. This drastically reduces the direct impact and friction that causes cartilage inflammation.
Even if you can't use them in competitions, training with them protects your ears during intense sessions. Our Tenace earguards are designed to be lightweight, comfortable and secure.
ā 2. Quickly treat any swelling
If you notice that your ear is swollen or tender after a workout:
- Apply ice immediately for 10-15 minutes to reduce swelling.
- Avoid continuing to train until the pain subsides.
ā 3. Drain the ear in time
If a hematoma has already formed (that feeling that the ear is "full" or swollen):
- Consult a doctor or experienced trainer to drain the fluid as soon as possible.
- Allowing the liquid to solidify causes permanent deformity.
ā 4. Defend your head more
If you feel like your ears are constantly hitting against the kimono, the mat, or your training partner's body, adjust your technique :
- Use your hands to lock grips around your head.
- Learn to defend your head better, especially if you work a lot in "passing" positions.
ā 5. Post-workout care
After each session:
- Wash your ears with soap and water to prevent infections.
- Massage your ears gently to stimulate blood circulation.
A symbol of pride or an unnecessary risk?
This is the big question. Should you feel proud if your ears start to swell?
- For some BJJ and Grappling veterans , cauliflower ears are almost like a "battle medal." They represent hours of hard training, battles on the mat, and an unwavering commitment to the martial art.
- But on the other hand, there is an important medical aspect: cauliflower ears are not harmless . They can cause partial hearing loss, recurrent infections and even block the ear canal if not treated properly.
Pride or not, protecting your ears doesn't mean you're training any less hard. In fact, smart grapplers know that taking care of their body, including their ears, will allow them to train longer and perform better.
Why don't professionals always wear earmuffs?
It is curious to see that many elite athletes do not use earguards during their training or competitions . Why does this happen?
- Aesthetics and "status": For some, cauliflower ears are seen as a sign of experience. There is a certain pride in showing off the marks of years of dedication to the sport.
- Discomfort: Some traditional earguards can be bulky or move around during sessions, interfering with technique. That's why the key is to choose a model designed specifically for Grappling and BJJ, such as our Tenace earguards , which combine protection and a perfect fit.
- Competition rules: In some competitions, the use of earguards is allowed, while in others they may be restricted depending on the federation. For this reason, many prefer to train without them to adapt to the conditions of the tournament.
The important thing is to find earguards that not only protect, but also feel comfortable and do not restrict your mobility. That's why we created these Tenace earguards!
Should you wear earguards for every workout?
The answer is yes.
If you really want to prevent cauliflower ear , it's best to wear earguards during every workout ā especially during sparring sessions or intense drills.
Because?
- The damage is cumulative: A little bump today, another one next weekā¦ and suddenly, your ears start to swell. Injuries donāt always happen in one hit; they add up over time.
- You avoid distractions: Having sore ears can cause you to start avoiding certain positions or techniques for fear of hurting yourself further.
- You train safe and strong: By protecting your ears, you can continue focusing on improving your techniques without worrying about the physical consequences.
Is cauliflower ear more common in BJJ or No-Gi Grappling?
The quick answer: It is more common in BJJ with a kimono ā¦ but not always.
Because?
- In Jiujitsu , grips on lapels, sleeves and pants create more friction and direct pressure on the ears, increasing the chances of this type of injury.
- In Grappling , although there is no kimono to pull on your ears, the clinch positions and quick transitions also generate impacts and friction, especially if you work a lot on the upper body.
In both BJJ and No-Gi, your ears are exposed. If you practice both styles (as many athletes do who combine disciplines to strengthen their game), protecting yourself with quality earguards is a smart investment .
How does cauliflower ear affect your performance in competitions?
You may think cauliflower ears are just a matter of aesthetics, but did you know they can impact your actual performance?
- Constant pain: Swollen ears hurt, a lot. This can cause you to become distracted during competitions or even avoid certain positions (like playing closed guard) for fear of aggravating the injury.
- Reduced hearing range: Over time, poorly treated ears can cause partial hearing loss or block the ear canal, which could make it difficult to hear your coach's instructions during a fight.
- Increased risk of infections: Swollen ears can open the door to serious infections, something you definitely don't want to deal with while preparing for a major tournament.
Protecting your ears means protecting your focus and performance. That's why Tenace earguards not only protect your ears, but also allow you to compete without distractions.
Which fighting style is most at risk: passers or guard players?
Are you more of a guard player or a passer? Depending on your style, the risk of developing cauliflower ears varies:
- Guard players: They are more likely to receive direct pressure to the head and ears when their opponents try to get past their guard. Constant rubbing against the kimono or mat increases the chances of injury.
- Pins: Although less exposed to direct friction, they can suffer impacts during clinches, takedowns or quick transitions.
Cauliflower ears may be seen as a symbol of dedication, but the true mark of a smart athlete is taking care of his body to perform longer and harder .
It's not about avoiding hard work, it's about protecting what matters most: your health and performance. That's why at Tenace , we've designed our specialized earguards for BJJ, Grappling and MMA ā lightweight, comfortable and with the perfect fit so you can keep training at the highest level.
Do you want to train harder and safer?
ā”ļø Explore our Tenace earguards .
ā”ļø Follow us on Instagram for more training tips and exclusive promotions.
ā”ļø Subscribe to our newsletter and receive special discounts and tips to improve your performance on the mat.
