V.O.W. Jiu-Jitsu Blog"
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Jiu Jitsu Etiquette: What Every Beginner Needs to Know
Jiu Jitsu Etiquette: What Every Beginner Needs to Know
In Jiu Jitsu, certain etiquette rules are universally followed, while others may vary from school to school. Some academies maintain a more traditional approach, while others may adopt a more relaxed atmosphere. At V.O.W. Jiu Jitsu, here’s a list of key dos and don’ts to keep in mind.
1. Starting a roll
- Before and After Rolling:
Slap-bump fists or shake hands with your training partner before and after rolling (sparring) to show mutual respect. This gesture also signals the start of the roll, giving both partners time to prepare.
2. Hygiene and Personal Cleanliness
Maintaining good hygiene is essential in Jiu Jitsu, as close contact is a fundamental part of training. Good hygiene practices help prevent the spread of infections and create a more pleasant training environment.
- Clean Gi and Gear:
Always wear a clean Gi or No-Gi gear to class. Wash your training clothes after every session, and ensure that your belt and rash guard are also clean and odor-free. - Personal Hygiene:
Keep your fingernails and toenails trimmed, and use deodorant. If you have any open cuts or wounds, cover them with a bandage to prevent infections. - No Shoes on the Mats:
Never wear shoes on the mats. If you need to step off the mats during class, put on flip-flops or sandals and remove them before stepping back onto the mats.
3. Communication and Attitude
A positive attitude and clear communication are key to fostering a supportive and respectful training environment.
- Tapping:
When caught in a submission, tap early to avoid injury. Tap on your partner, not the mat, and verbally say tap to so it is clear the sparring session stops. - Respect Your Partner’s:
Everyone in Jiu Jitsu has different physical abilities. Always train at a controlled pace for both you and your partner. For example, if you are much larger than your partner, practice more control and focus on technique. - Be Humble:
Approach training with humility. You’re there to learn, not to prove you’re the best. Accept feedback, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about something.
5. Proper Use of the Mat Space
The mat is a shared space, and it’s important to use it respectfully.
- Watch Your Space:
When practicing techniques or rolling, be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid encroaching on other pairs, and if you accidentally bump into another group, apologize and reposition yourselves.
6. Techniques to Avoid
- Scissor Takedown:
This technique can be drilled with a knowing partner, but not done in live training. There is a high risk to your partners knee when executing in live sparing. - Jumping to Guard: Again, this is high risk to the knees of your partner and is not a technique V.O.W. encourages in class or live sparring.
- Grabbing Fingers: Four or more is the rule. You can grab four or more fingers. Grabbing fingers is something beginners may do in reaction to chokes. This seems to be a natural response, but is called out if done on the mats.
- Neck Crank: Certain Jiu Jitsu techniques, like the can opener, involve neck cranks. However, we strongly discourage performing neck cranks during training due to the high risk of neck injury to your partner. Any technique that pulls on your opponent’s neck should be avoided.