Recently, Rener Gracie shared a patient-lifting technique on social media that bears striking resemblance to a viral video from Japan.
The technique, which Gracie demonstrated in his own video, shows a method for safely lifting patients from the ground using body mechanics similar to Turkish getups commonly performed with kettlebells. The original content, titled “Caregiver in Japan shows a safer way to lift patients,” had already gained significant traction online before Gracie’s version appeared.
In his demonstration, Gracie walked viewers through the process step by step. “Let’s say Grandpa Bob has fallen and he can’t get up. And it’s your responsibility to get him from the ground back into his seat or his wheelchair. This is how you’re going to do it with the highest level of efficiency,” he explained in the video.
The technique involves connecting with the patient, positioning legs strategically, and using leverage to safely lift someone from the ground. “Take your bottom leg, tuck it under his hips, and you’re good to go. Take your front hand, hug the body, hold his lap,” Gracie instructed, before demonstrating how to complete the lift.
What caught the attention of observers was the similarity to the Japanese caregiver’s original demonstration, which had prompted viewers to note its resemblance to established exercise movements. The original video’s viewers had commented that the technique mirrored the Turkish getup exercise and discussed its practical applications for healthcare workers dealing with patients of varying sizes.
To his credit, Gracie did eventually acknowledge the technique’s origins, posting “I didn’t invent this, but I wish I did” while tagging his Gracie Medical Defense program. However, this attribution came after the initial video had already circulated widely.
Gracie’s recent activities have also drawn scrutiny from the BJJ community regarding intellectual property concerns. He has filed a patent application for what he calls the “SafeWrap” system, essentially a rebranded version of the common “gift wrap” position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This move has sparked debate about whether fundamental martial arts techniques should be subject to patent protection.
Additionally, Rener’s brother Ryron Gracie has faced backlash from the martial arts community for selling $599 limited-edition silver coin sets. Critics called it another attempt to monetize the Gracie name. The controversy comes amid growing criticism of Gracie University’s teaching methods, particularly delaying sparring for students, which practitioners argue produces underprepared martial artists.
Further damaging credibility, former instructor Evandro Nunes has also accused the organization of shady business practices, lax testing standards, and tax avoidance, making the coin venture appear especially tone-deaf in light of ongoing scrutiny.
