WHAT TO EXPECT:
FIRST DAY
There are a few things you can expect on your first day of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. You'll meet your instructor and fellow students, learn some basic techniques, and get a feel for the gym's culture and atmosphere. It's normal to feel a bit nervous, but remember that everyone was a beginner once and we're here to help you begin your journey. Just take your time, ask questions, and have fun!
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Below, we'll highlight a few details to set you up for success before you get started.
UNIFORM
EXPECTATIONS & Recommendations
UNIFORM:
MALE NO-GI
UNIFORM:
FEMALE NO-GI
UNIFORM:
MALE GI
UNIFORM:
FEMALE GI
ACADEMY RULES & ETIQUETTE
HYGIENE & UNIFORM
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a close-contact, combat sport. Proper hygiene and uniform ensure all who train at our academy can do so in a safe manner. Illnesses and injuries can halt training as we rely on our training partners to execute techniques and simulations.
• Proper personal hygiene is required.
• Students must shower before and after class.
• Fingernails and toenails must be trimmed. Hands and feet must be clean.
• Long hair must be tied back.
• Remove all jewelry and piercings before class. No metal objects are to be worn on the mats.
• Uniforms and apparel must be cleaned after every use. This includes gi’s, belts, rashguards, shorts, spats, undergarments, etc.
• Wear gi/apparel that is clean with no rips, tears, holes, or stains.
• Rashguards must be worn under gi tops. Females are also required to wear a sports bra.
• Athletic undergarments are highly suggested under gi bottoms. Full coverage is required.
• Open cuts must be covered at all times.
• DO NOT TRAIN if you have a bacterial/fungal infection (ie. athletes foot, ringworm, MRSA).
• DO NOT TRAIN if you are sick.
• No food in the training space.
• Mouthguards are highly encouraged, especially while grappling/rolling/sparring.
• No footwear on the mats. Footwear must be placed on the edge of the mat in a neat fashion.
• Footwear MUST be worn off the mats. Footwear MUST be worn while in the restroom and locker rooms. Students will NOT be allowed to train if found violating this rule.
• Keep mats, training space, restrooms, and facility clean and tidy at all times.
• Classes begin with a formal bow of respect to the instructor/professor(s) with students lining up in descending rank order.
• Be on time and prepared for class. Those who are late must request permission from the instructor/professor before joining the class.
• Bow to the center of the mat when entering or exiting the mat.
• Do not leave the mat without notifying the instructor/professor.
• Keep quiet and still while the instructor/professor is demonstrating techniques.
• Mobile phones/technology must be put on silent and secured in your bag during class.
• No foul language. This includes on and off the mats, while you’re on the property.
• Be aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe environment when training.
• Respect those you train with and your instructors. Rank is a symbol of knowledge and wisdom. Respect the training facility, instructors and the time devoted to the art.
• Show courtesy before and after each grappling session.
• Use proper tap out procedures. Remember, it is only a training session.
• Give higher ranked belts preferred space while grappling/rolling/sparring.
• Check your ego at the door. Be humble and respectful to others. Be gracious in victory and defeat.
• You are responsible for your guest’s/child’s behavior if and when they are not participating in class. Anyone not actively participating in class must stay off the mats.
• No person is allowed to participate in class without first signing AJJA liability waiver.
• What you learn is taught for your development not only as a student, but also as a citizen. It should be used as a last resort when everything else has failed.
rules & etiquette
In keeping the respect and traditions of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and our own academy, please be mindful of the rules and etiquette we have set in place. These rules allow us to ensure everyone is experiencing BJJ and our academy in a positive and consistent way.
CLASS
STRUCTURE
We recommend showing up to class (no sooner than) 10-15 minutes early to get stretch out as needed and to be prepared to begin class promptly at the start time.
The first hour of adult classes will include an instructor-lead warmup, demonstration & teachings of techniques, and dedicated time to practice/drill the new techniques.
Kid's classes have a similar structure, but on a shorter timeline to allow for maximum focus.
The last half-hour of class is time designated for live grappling rounds. This is entirely voluntary and students may participate as they please.
