Beginners Guide to BJJ Etiquette Northridge

 

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) at Gracie Barra Northridge involves more than just learning moves; it means embracing the culture and strict etiquette of the academy. Proper etiquette is crucial because BJJ is a close-contact martial art, and adherence ensures safety, hygiene, and respect for everyone on the mat.

 

Here is a detailed beginner’s guide to BJJ etiquette at Gracie Barra Northridge.

 

 🧼 I. Hygiene and Safety Protocols (Non-Negotiable)

 

These rules are paramount because they protect you and your training partners from injury and infection.

 

 Personal Hygiene: Always arrive on the mat freshly showered and wearing a clean uniform (Gi). This prevents the spread of bacteria, fungi (like ringworm), and viruses.

 Keep Gear Clean: Never wear a dirty or sweat-soaked uniform from a previous day. Ensure your Gi is washed after every single training session.

 Trim Nails: Fingernails and toenails must be trimmed short. Long nails can easily scratch a partner’s eyes or skin, creating entry points for infection.

 No Jewelry: Remove all jewelry, rings, necklaces, watches, and piercings before stepping onto the mat. These items can tear skin or cause severe joint injury during grappling.

 Sickness Policy: If you are sick, have a cough, or suspect a skin infection, do not come to class. This is a matter of respect for the health of the entire team.

 

 🥋 II. Uniform (Gi) and Mat Rules

 

The mat is a place of respect, and the uniform is part of the tradition.

 

 The Gi: At Gracie Barra, the uniform is part of the discipline. Ensure your Gi is worn properly (jacket tied, belt secured). Wearing the academy’s official Gi is often required.

 The Belt: Never wear your belt outside of the academy, particularly not to the restroom. It should be worn only on the mat.

 Footwear (Mat Shoes): You must wear flip-flops or sandals (“mat shoes”) when walking off the mat (e.g., to the restroom, water fountain, or front desk). You should never walk barefoot off the mat and then back onto it, as this tracks germs onto the training surface.

 Entering/Exiting the Mat: It is customary to bow upon stepping onto and off the mat as a sign of respect for the training space.

 

 🤝 III. Conduct Towards Instructors and Peers

 

The BJJ culture is built on a hierarchy of respect for experience and knowledge.

 

 Addressing Instructors: Address black belt instructors as “Professor” and other coaches by their rank or name, unless instructed otherwise.

 Punctuality: Arrive on time. If you are late, wait respectfully at the edge of the mat and ask the instructor for permission before joining the class. Do not simply walk onto the mat.

 Attention During Instruction: When the Professor is demonstrating a technique, stop all conversation, sit respectfully, and listen intently. Never talk over the instructor or other students.

 Choosing Training Partners:

     Be respectful and willing to drill with anyone.

     In the GB1 Fundamentals Program, listen carefully to the person you are drilling with, especially higher belts, who are often acting as your mentor.

 

 ⚠️ IV. Sparring (Rolling) Etiquette

 

This is the most critical area for safety once you begin sparring in the advanced classes.

 

 The Golden Rule: Tap Early, Tap Often. Tapping is a sign of intelligence and safety, not failure. When your partner taps (physically or verbally), release the submission immediately and unconditionally.

 Control the Intensity: Match the energy and size of your partner. Do not use explosive, reckless strength, especially against smaller or less-experienced partners. Focus on technique and control.

 Awareness: Be mindful of other rolling pairs, walls, and corners. If you are close to another pair, stop and restart the roll in the center of the mat.

 Asking to Roll: It is courteous to bow or nod and ask, “Would you like to roll?” before starting.

 

Gracie Barra Northridge Location & Contact:

 

Address: 19520 Nordhoff St 10th, Northridge, CA 91324

 

Phone: +1 818-357-4074

 

Website: gbnorthridge.com

Beginners Guide to BJJ Etiquette Northridge