Etiquette

Gym Etiquette

• Come to class on time with a clean gi (or no gi attire) each time. If you are late, we understand; check in with your instructor before coming into class.

• Keep fingernails and toenails short and clean. This is important to avoid scratching and cutting your training partners.

• Jiu-Jitsu is a very close quarter martial art. Having good general hygiene is important.

• Rashguards/shirts are required under the gi and while you are walking around the gym.

• Shower immediately after you leave the gym to avoid skin infections. Using a soap like Defense Soap, Armbar Soap, tea tree based soap, or other training soap can be helpful. If you cannot shower immediately, Defense wipes are a good option.

• If skin infection does occur, like ringworm, staph, etc., please notify the academy as a precaution and do not train until the infection has cleared. We understand that this can happen and will take every precaution to maintain and promote a clean gym environment. It takes the entire team taking action immediately when noticing any rash, bumps, etc. that will help us all maintain this environment.

• If you are ill, please stay home until you are well to avoid spreading colds, etc. from your teammates.

• Although rare, injuries can happen in Jiu Jitsu; if you will be out for some time due to injury, please inform your instructors. If you have a contract, please make sure to come in or let us know that we need to fill out a freeze form so that we can reactivate your account upon your return. Without filling out the form, we will continue to charge your account until you notify us.

• Anytime there is blood on the mats, please inform an instructor immediately who will take care of the cleanup.

• Take care of your training partners! This means helping each other on the mats and being someone that other people want to train with. The team environment is important to maintain as a positive experience. Please come in with a good attitude and leave your ego at the door.

• Know what techniques are and are not allowed in sparring for your respective rank. If you are not positive if something is safe and legal, don't do it! Take the time to ask your Instructor(s) about it before you try anything new and make sure that you and your training partner stay safe.

• During class, please let our trained Instructors do the coaching. They have had many hours of instruction on the curriculum that they are teaching. If you have a question, just ask for help!

• No derogatory language will be tolerated. Any use of language that is offensive towards others is prohibited – this includes comments about race, gender, orientation, religion, age, ability, etc. We want to foster an environment where EVERYONE can train and enjoy themselves. Outright physical altercations will be an immediate expulsion from the academy – and that includes outside of the gym. We do not do martial arts to promote violent behavior outside of the academy. Your skill set is being developed for yourself and self-defense. Please represent your academy and yourself well.

• If you wish to compete in Jiu Jitsu, please talk to your instructor before signing up. We can help you understand what is expected of you as a competitor and representative of the gym. That said, we do think competing is great for everyone and for that reason, we want you to talk to us so we can help you get ready for what can be an extremely fun and motivating step in your Jiu Jitsu journey.

• Please talk to your instructor if you have questions about rank and improving in your Jiu Jitsu. We are here to help you grow on your journey and would love to help you find ways to meet your Jiu Jitsu goals.