Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is steeped in a culture born of respect and time honored traditions. When approached with grace and humility, it not only nurtures its students and the lessons and techniques they strive to master; it builds confidence, promotes good values and ethical behavior and cultivates a welcoming environment and camaraderie.
…and, when it comes to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu etiquette, there is so much more:
Be Courteous
- Etiquette and respect begin with common courtesy, so Brazilian Jiu Jitsu beginners should start by always being on time for training.
- It is polite form and good etiquette in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to introduce yourself.
- It is also important to focus during instruction, paying close attention to your coach and holding questions until an appropriate time.
- Cleanliness also falls under the category of courtesy. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a very physical, close contact sport, so the practice of good hygiene is expected. Students should shower before class, use deodorant and be sure that their clothing is washed and their gear is clean.
- Speaking of clothing, clothes with pockets or metal parts or shirts that could snag should not be worn to class. Additionally – and this is very important – no shoes should ever be worn on the mats, although flip flops or sandals should be worn throughout other parts of the academy.
- Jewelry and lotions or creams which could provide an unfair advantage are prohibited.
- Also keep fingernails and toenails neatly trimmed and, if you have long hair, it should be tied back and out of the way.
- Plus, always be mindful of health. This means that you should not come to class if you are sick or have skin issues which could be transmitted, and you should always cover any cuts or abrasions.
Be Safe
Apply etiquette to sparring for safe training. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu beginners should always avoid risky moves which could cause injury. Most safety etiquette within Brazilian Jiu Jitsu boils down to common sense. For instance, never crash into others, be extra careful if someone is nearing a wall, be mindful of fingers and if your coach (who will always look out for your safety and the safety of others in the class) instructs you to move or do something else, move or do it.
Remember that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practice is not an intense competition, it is a time and place where techniques are learned and skills are honed. So, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu beginners should always spar lightly. More experienced Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioners may increase sparring intensity with control, but even they should always ask how intensely their partner wishes to spar when in doubt.
If you are unsure of how fast to apply joint locks and chokes, always opt for slow and smooth as opposed to fast and sudden. No matter what, drilling should be controlled – always allowing your opponent enough time and opportunity to tap. As for you, do not wait too long to tap and tap clearly. If your hands are trapped, verbally tap; and always allow your sparring partner the same courtesy – immediately stopping if that is what your opponent requests.
Be Respectful
- Respect your environment, always keeping mats clean and following your gym’s protocol, bowing when and if it is expected.
- Respect your sparring partner. Do not coach them or others in your class.
- Respect your coach, the referees and higher belts.
- There is no foul language, no parental interference and no drama permitted in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Leave your ego at the door, lose with dignity and treat everyone the way you would want to be treated.
Training should be consistently controlled, safe and respectful. Students should exhibit self-control, good sportsmanship and strive to be the most positive example they can be. These behaviors promote expedited improvement, less injuries and create a welcoming, friendly environment where everyone can enjoy the masterful art and sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Ralph Gracie Mission Viejo Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy
More than perfecting physical moves, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instills desirable qualities such as self-discipline, self-awareness, courage, emotional stability, mental fortitude and perseverance. Its proper training cultivates the acceptance of others and prepares us to face life’s challenges. Additionally, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu etiquette helps us focus on healthy goals and demonstrate poise under pressure…all the while being courteous and polite.
The Ralph Gracie Mission Viejo Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy encourages and fosters respect in a safe and welcoming environment where every student is valued and nurtured. At Ralph Gracie Mission Viejo, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioners not only reap the benefits of all of the life lessons that come with the mastery of such a revered martial art; but they enjoy an inclusive atmosphere where students can excel and enjoy themselves.
To learn more about Ralph Gracie Mission Viejo Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy, conveniently located at 26861 Trabuco Road, Mission Viejo, CA 92691, call 949-400-7108.