Preparing for Class: Pre-Mat Essentials

Your BJJ journey starts long before the instructor bows in. Proper preparation shows respect for your teammates and the academy. Following these simple steps will make a huge difference.

Proper Hygiene is Non-Negotiable

This is the single most important rule in BJJ. Grappling involves close physical contact. Maintaining strict personal hygiene is crucial for preventing the spread of skin infections.

• Shower Before Class: Always arrive clean. A shower before training helps protect your partners.

• Keep Gear Fresh: Wash your Gi or No-Gi attire immediately after every single use. Never put on a damp or dirty uniform.

• Trim Nails: Keep both fingernails and toenails short and trimmed. Long nails can easily scratch or cut a training partner.

• Cover Wounds: If you have any cuts, scrapes, or open wounds, cover them completely with athletic tape or a bandage.

• Remove Jewelry: Take off all jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and earrings. These items can injure you or your partner.

Arrive Punctually and Ready

Punctuality shows respect for the instructor and the class structure. Showing up late disrupts the warm-up and the instructor’s demonstration.

• Arrive Early: Aim to be at Gracie Barra Aliso Viejo at least ten to fifteen minutes early. This gives you time to change and stretch.

• Be Ready to Start: Do not walk onto the mat after the class has officially begun without permission. If you are late, wait at the edge of the mat until the instructor signals you to join.

Mat Etiquette: Rules of the Training Space

The mat (tatame) is considered sacred space in martial arts. It is where you learn and grow. Respecting this space and the people within it is paramount.

The Bowing Tradition

Bowing is a fundamental sign of respect in BJJ. It is a simple gesture. It signifies respect for your training space, your teammates, and the art itself.

• Entering and Exiting: Always bow before stepping onto the mat and again when stepping off. This acknowledges the training space.

• To Instructors: Bow to your instructor at the start and end of every class. This acknowledges their role as your guide.

Shoes and Footwear Rule

Shoes are never allowed on the mat. They carry dirt and germs from outside. This contaminates the clean training surface.

• Wear Sandals: Always wear clean sandals or flip-flops when moving between the changing room and the mat. This protects your feet and the mat.

• Leave Shoes Off: Step out of your footwear right before stepping onto the mat. Never walk barefoot off the mat and then return without cleaning your feet.

Respecting the Learning Environment

During instruction, focus and attention are vital. Distractions interrupt the learning process for everyone present.

• Pay Attention: When the instructor is speaking, stop what you are doing. Look at them, remaining still and quiet.

• Sit Down: When seated during instruction, sit cross-legged or kneel at the edge of the mat. Never sit with your legs stretched out, as this is disrespectful and a tripping hazard.

• Do Not Coach: Unless you are explicitly asked by the instructor, avoid coaching or giving unsolicited advice to your peers. Focus on your own training.

Safety and Sparring (Rolling) Protocol

Sparring, or “rolling,” is the application phase of BJJ. It is essential for growth. However, it demands adherence to strict safety rules. Safety always comes before ego.

The Sacred Rule of Tapping

Tapping out is how you signal to your partner that you are submitting. It means you are giving up the position or the submission. Tapping is the most important safety mechanism in BJJ.

• Tap Early: Tap immediately if you feel pain or are uncomfortable. Do not wait for an injury to occur. Tapping means you live to roll another day.

• Tap Clearly: Tap your partner three times or tap the mat. If your hands are trapped, verbally say “tap.”

• Release Immediately: If you are the person applying the submission, you must release the hold instantly when your partner taps or verbally signals.

Controlled Rolling is Mandatory

Rolling with aggression or lack of control is reckless. It puts yourself and your partners at risk of injury. Every movement should be smooth, not explosive or sudden.

• Mind Your Space: Be aware of other rolling groups around you. Avoid crashing into them. If you get too close to another pair, stop and reset.

• Control Your Body: Avoid slamming your partner or executing dangerous takedowns. Always use controlled movements.

• Choose Wisely: As a beginner, always roll with experienced partners first. They know how to control the pace. They will keep you safe while challenging you.

Asking Permission

Never just jump into a roll. Always ask someone if they would like to roll. This shows courtesy and respect for their time and readiness.

• Formally Ask: Use simple phrases like, “Would you like to roll?” or “Do you want to go?”

• Thank Your Partner: Always thank your partner after the roll. A simple “Thank you” shows respect, whether you won or lost.

The Gracie Barra Aliso Viejo Community Spirit

Etiquette at Gracie Barra Aliso Viejo extends beyond simple rules; it forms the backbone of our community. We believe Jiu-Jitsu is a team sport. Your personal growth depends on the cooperation of your training partners.

Respect the Uniform (Gi)

Your Gi is part of your commitment. Keep it clean and in good condition. Patches should be limited to Gracie Barra patches only, maintaining the school’s standards. Never train without a complete uniform unless the class is specifically No-Gi.

Listen to Your Instructor

Your instructor is the leader in the academy. Their word is final. Never question an instruction while on the mat. If you have questions, wait for an appropriate time during the Q&A segment. They guide your progression. They ensure safety.

Be Humble and Help Others

Humility is the key to learning. Even as you progress, never look down on those who are new. Help a beginner understand a position if the instructor asks you to. The growth of the community in Aliso Viejo depends on mutual support.