BJJ Etiquette: Dojo Rules at Gracie Barra Northridge Jiu-Jitsu

 

Adhering to the etiquette at GBN is just as important as learning the techniques. These rules, often referred to as the “Gracie Barra Code,” are designed to maintain safety, respect, and a disciplined, effective learning environment under Professor Romulo Barral’s instruction.

 

1. Hygiene and Safety (Non-Negotiable)

 

These rules are strictly enforced because BJJ is a close-contact sport, and cleanliness is paramount for preventing skin infections.

 

 Rule  Rationale  Action Required

 

 Wear Footwear Off the Mat  To prevent the spread of bacteria (staph, ringworm) from the floor/restroom onto the training area.  Mandatory: Wear flip-flops, slides, or sandals right up to the edge of the mat. Remove them before stepping on the mat, and put them on immediately upon stepping off. 

 Wash Gi After Every Class  Training in a dirty uniform is considered deeply disrespectful and medically unsafe.  Mandatory: The Gi and any rash guard must be washed after each session. Never re-wear a sweaty Gi. 

 Trim Nails and Remove Jewelry  Long nails can severely scratch or cut training partners. Jewelry poses a risk of breaking fingers or causing lacerations.  Mandatory: Fingernails and toenails must be trimmed short. Remove all rings, necklaces, watches, and earrings before stepping onto the mat. 

 Cover All Open Wounds  To prevent bleeding onto the mats or spreading infection.  Mandatory: If you have a cut, it must be cleaned, disinfected, and thoroughly covered with a bandage and athletic tape.

 

2. Uniform and Attire (The Gracie Barra Code)

 

Gracie Barra maintains a strong emphasis on uniformity to foster team unity and discipline.

 

 The Official Gi: Students must wear the official Gracie Barra Gi (kimono) that displays the “Red Shield” patches. Gis from other academies are generally not permitted.

 Belt Protocol: The belt must be tied correctly (snugly, with the ends of equal length) before lining up. The belt represents your rank and should be treated with respect (e.g., do not drag it on the floor).

 Under-Layers: A rash guard (tight athletic shirt) must be worn under the Gi jacket by everyone. This is a hygiene and safety requirement.

 

3. Mat Etiquette (Respect for the Dojo)

 

These rules govern behavior while inside the training area.

 

 Bowing: You must bow when stepping onto the mat and when stepping off the mat. This is a sign of respect for the training space and the lineage.

 Addressing Instructors: Refer to the Head Instructor as “Professor” (e.g., Professor Barral) or “Coach” for assistant instructors.

 Punctuality: Try to arrive 10-15 minutes early. If you are late, you must wait at the edge of the mat until the Professor formally acknowledges you and grants permission to join the class. Do not walk into the middle of the mat or interrupt the instruction.

 Asking Questions: Ask questions relevant to the technique being shown. Raise your hand or wait for the Professor to ask for questions. Do not interrupt instruction.

 Sitting Protocol: When the Professor is talking, students should sit on the mat in a respectful manner (sitting cross-legged or kneeling). Never sit with your feet pointed toward the instructor.

 

4. Training and Sparring (Rolling) Etiquette

 

These rules ensure safety and a productive learning experience during partner work.

 

 Tapping: This is the most important rule. Tap early and often. Tap the mat or your partner if you feel pain, pressure, or if you simply feel overwhelmed. Tapping is a sign of intelligence and safety—not weakness.

 Stop Immediately: If your partner taps, or if you hear a strange noise, or if the instructor yells “Stop!,” you must immediately release all pressure and check on your partner.

 Controlled Power: When training with a lower-ranked or smaller partner, you must adjust your intensity and strength. Use technique, not brute force. Protect your training partners.

 Stay Focused: When rolling, avoid colliding with other pairs. If you roll too close to another group, stop, reset, and adjust your position on the mat.

 Teaching/Coaching: White belts should not instruct other white belts unless explicitly asked to help by the Professor. Focus on your own learning. Leave the coaching to the higher belts.

 

The GBN Code

 

The rules at Gracie Barra Northridge are simple: Be safe, be clean, and be respectful. By following this etiquette, you ensure a positive learning environment not only for yourself but for the entire GBN team, allowing everyone to train safely and effectively.

 

Gracie Barra Northridge Location & Contact:

 

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

 

Phone: +1 818-357-4074

 

info@gbnorthridge.com

 

Website: gbnorthridge.com

 

Hours

Mon-Thurs: 12 PM to 9 PM

Fridays: 12 PM to 7 PM

Saturdays: 9 AM to 2 PM

Sundays: CLOSED

BJJ Etiquette: Dojo Rules at Gracie Barra Northridge Jiu-Jitsu