1. Safety First: The Non-Negotiable Rules of the Mat

Safety is the absolute priority in any martial arts academy. In Jiu-Jitsu, you are responsible for the well-being of your training partner. Violating these rules is the quickest way to injure someone or be asked to leave the mats.

Tapping is Mandatory

The most important rule in BJJ is the tap. A tap signifies submission, discomfort, or injury, and it must be respected immediately and unconditionally.

• When to Tap: Tap early, tap often. It means you recognize the position is dangerous or that you can no longer escape. Tapping saves your joints and prevents concussions.

• How to Tap: You can tap your opponent (on their body or leg) or on the mat loudly. If your hands are caught, yell “Tap!” so your partner and the instructor can hear you.

• Releasing the Submission: The moment you feel or hear your partner tap, you must release the pressure instantly. This demonstrates control and respect.

Spatial Awareness and Collision Avoidance

The mat can become crowded, especially during live rolling (sparring). You must be aware of your surroundings at all times to prevent collisions.

• Stay in Your Area: Try to roll in the center of the mat or in an open area.

• Move Off the Mat: If you roll near a wall, the edge of the mat, or another pair, pause the roll, get up, and return to a safer area before continuing. Do not roll into objects or other students.

Reporting Injuries

If you or your partner feel an injury, stop immediately. Report any injury or pain to your instructor immediately, no matter how minor it seems. This protects you and alerts the instructor to potential hazards.

2. The Cleanliness Code: Respecting the Dojo

Jiu-Jitsu is a close-contact sport, making cleanliness a fundamental rule of etiquette and safety. No one wants to share mat-born infections.

Uniform (Gi) and Gear

• Gi Maintenance: Your Gi (kimono) must be clean, washed after every single use, and free of unpleasant odors. A smelly Gi is an indication of disrespect for your training partners.

• Personal Hygiene: Always trim your fingernails and toenails short to avoid scratching training partners. Do not wear strong cologne or perfume.

• Feet and Shoes: Never step onto the mats with shoes, sandals, or socks. Conversely, never step off the mats barefoot. Always wear sandals or slippers (flip-flops) when walking off the mat to use the restroom or get water. This prevents transferring germs from the floor back onto the training area.

Jewelry and Accessories

Remove all jewelry—rings, necklaces, earrings, and piercings—before training. They are a significant safety hazard, capable of causing serious cuts to your partners or tearing your own skin.

3. Mat Etiquette: Respecting the Instructor and Peers

The hierarchy and traditions of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu govern the atmosphere of the academy. Showing respect builds the community and enhances your learning experience.

Bowing and Entering/Exiting the Mat

• Bowing: Always bow when stepping onto and off the mat. This is a sign of respect for the training space (dojo) and the tradition of the martial art.

• Instructor Permission: If you need to leave the mat for water, to adjust your uniform, or to take a phone call, always ask your instructor for permission first. Do not simply walk off.

During Class Time

• Punctuality: Try to arrive early. If you are late, wait at the edge of the mat until the instructor acknowledges you and gives you permission to join the class.

• Attention: When the instructor is talking, sit or stand still, and listen actively. Avoid talking with training partners while the instructor is demonstrating a technique.

• Ask Questions Thoughtfully: If you have a question, raise your hand and wait your turn. Ask concise questions related specifically to the demonstrated technique.

Rolling Protocols

• Asking to Roll: Always ask a partner respectfully if they would like to roll. Never interrupt a roll that is already in progress.

• Hygiene Check: If your belt comes undone during a roll, briefly move to the side of the mat to fix it. Do not turn your back to your training partner while fixing your uniform.

• Post-Roll Respect: Always bow or shake hands with your partner after the roll. Thank them for the training session—win or lose. This respect is fundamental to Jiu-Jitsu.

4. The Belt System: Showing Rank Respect

The belt system in BJJ is a core part of its culture, representing years of dedication and skill.

Respecting Higher Ranks

Always show respect to those with higher belts (especially brown and black belts). They have dedicated significant time and effort to the art.

• Initiating Rolls: As a white belt, it is customary to wait for a higher belt to ask you to roll. However, as you gain confidence, you may politely ask them.

• Listening to Advice: Higher belts often offer helpful corrections or advice during or after a roll. Always listen with humility, thank them, and try to apply their guidance.

Do Not Grab the Belt or Uniform (Outside of Training)

The Gi represents the practice, and the belt represents rank. Do not touch or grab a student’s belt unnecessarily off the mat. Also, never wear your belt outside the academy or on the street.