If we were to look up the definition of the word etiquette we would see this - "The customary code of polite behaviour in society or among members of a particular profession or group".
This is especially true in Jiu Jitsu. We don't have too many rules, but the ones we do have mean a great deal to us.
STUDIO ETIQUETTE
TRAINING RULES
LIVE TRAINING
Mindful Training: Always be mindful of your training partner's skill, weight, and age level. Respect their boundaries and capabilities.
Respect: Bow and/or shake hands before and after live sparring and practice. This is a symbol of mutual respect and sportsmanship.
Hair Protocol: If you have long hair, tie it up to prevent any discomfort to your partner.
Verbal Taps: Understand that yelling, grunting, or wincing is considered a verbal tap. Upon such cues, the match should be restarted.
Forbidden Actions: Slamming, scratching, or striking are not allowed.
Prohibited Moves: Be aware of all illegal techniques and those considered bad ettiquette during training. The most important are highlighted in the illegal techniques section below.
Hand and Finger Safety: Do not grab individual fingers or bend them backward. Such actions can lead to serious injuries.
Gradual Submissions: Apply submissions gradually. This gives your partner ample time to tap and helps prevent sudden injuries.
Respect for Tap Outs: Always respect a tap out. It's your partner's way of indicating their limit. Release the submission immediately when a tap out occurs.
Emotional Control: Stay calm and composed during the session. Overly emotional reactions can cause dangerous and reckless decisions that risk injury.
Surrounding Awareness: Keep an eye on your surroundings to avoid accidental collisions with other sparring pairs.
Hygiene Standards: Maintain personal hygiene. Keep your gi (uniform) clean and your nails trimmed. This creates a comfortable training environment for everyone.
Coaching: Avoid coaching or giving instructions during a roll, unless asked for advice. Sparring is a time for applying what you've learned.
Open Communication: Speak up if you're uncomfortable or in pain during a technique or submission. BJJ is about learning and growing, not proving toughness.
Restrained Dominance: Practice techniques and strategies rather than using brute force. Overpowering a smaller or less experienced partner is not the goal of sparring practice.
Positive Attitude: Keep a positive and supportive attitude. Everyone is here to learn and grow, so encourage your fellow training partners.
CHARACTER
ILLEGAL TECHNIQUES