Core Etiquette: Respecting the Dojo and the Professor

The foundation of BJJ etiquette is rooted in respect. This respect is directed toward the martial art, the training space, and the instructors. Following these simple rules shows humility and commitment. It immediately sets a positive tone for your training.

1. Bowing On and Off the Mat (The Salute)

This is a universal sign of respect in martial arts. It acknowledges the training space and the history of the art.

• Entering the Mat: Always bow as you step onto the training area. This shows respect for the space itself.

• Leaving the Mat: Always bow as you step off the mat. This is true even if it is just for a quick drink of water or a bathroom break.

2. Addressing the Professor and Instructors

The Professor (usually a Black Belt) and assistant instructors dedicate their time to teaching you. They deserve formal respect.

• Formal Titles: Always address your instructor as “Professor,” “Coach,” or “Sir/Ma’am.” Use the term they prefer.

• Listening During Instruction: When the instructor is speaking or demonstrating a technique, stop immediately. Sit or stand attentively. You must give them your full, undivided attention. Avoid side conversations entirely.

3. Personal Hygiene and Gear Standards

Hygiene is paramount in BJJ. Training involves close physical contact. Maintaining cleanliness is crucial for the health of the entire Dallas community.

• Clean Uniform: Always wear a clean Gi or No-Gi attire for every class. A dirty uniform can carry bacteria.

• Clean Body: Always arrive freshly showered. Ensure your hands and feet are clean before stepping onto the mat.

• Trimmed Nails: Keep both fingernails and toenails trimmed short. Long nails can easily scratch and injure training partners.

• Mouthguards and Protection: Always wear a mouthguard during sparring (rolling). We strongly recommend groin protection for men and boys.

• No Jewelry: Remove all jewelry, including rings, necklaces, earrings, and piercings, before training. They pose a significant risk of injury to both you and your partner.

Safety and Training Etiquette: Partnering for Progress

These rules govern how you interact with your fellow students during training. They focus on safety, learning, and mutual respect during the sparring phase.

4. Asking Someone to Roll (Sparring)

When asking a higher belt to roll, always use appropriate respect.

• Formal Invitation: Approach them politely. Ask, “Would you like to roll?” or “May I roll with you, Professor/Sir/Ma’am?”

• Acknowledge the Tap: When your partner taps, immediately stop the submission and release the pressure. Safety is the highest priority. Always thank your partner after the roll. This shows gratitude for their time and effort.

5. Managing Your Space and Partner Safety

Be aware of your surroundings to prevent accidents.

• Stay in Your Lane: When practicing drills, maintain awareness of other groups. Avoid drifting into their space.

• Yield to Smaller Pairs: If you are rolling near the edge of the mat or close to another pair, be aware. If a smaller pair is rolling near you, sometimes the larger pair should relocate to avoid accidents.

• Moving Off the Mat: If your roll takes you outside the mat area, stop immediately. Do not continue rolling on the hard floor. Return to the center of the mat or stand up and reset.

6. The Importance of the Tap

The tap is the most critical rule in BJJ. It is a sign of respect, trust, and intelligence.

• Tap Early: If you are caught in a submission or feel pain, tap immediately. Do not try to be tough. Tapping saves you from injury. You can then resume training quickly.

• Verbal Tap: If you cannot physically tap (your hands are caught), you can tap verbally by saying “Tap!”

• Respect the Tap: When your partner taps, release the hold immediately. No exceptions. Your job is to train them, not to hurt them.

General Class Etiquette: Maximizing Your Learning

These guidelines ensure the class runs smoothly and that everyone, especially beginners, gets the most out of their time at Alex Martins BJJ Dallas.

7. Arriving On Time (Or Late Protocol)

Punctuality is a sign of discipline and respect for the instructor’s time.

• Be Early: Aim to arrive at least 10–15 minutes early. This gives you time to change, wrap your hands (if needed), stretch, and prepare mentally.

• Late Arrival Protocol: If you must arrive late, wait respectfully at the edge of the mat. Wait until the instructor acknowledges you. Ask for permission to join the class. Do not interrupt the instruction. Perform a quick warm-up on the side before joining the main group.

8. Handling Equipment and Uniforms

Your Gi and equipment must be treated with care and respect.

• Belt Protocol: Never leave your belt dragging on the floor. Never step over anyone’s belt. The belt is a symbol of your journey.

• No Shoes on the Mat: Shoes are only permitted off the mat. Go barefoot, or wear specific training socks, on the mat. Wear flip-flops or sandals (called zori in traditional settings) when walking from the changing room to the edge of the mat. Never walk barefoot off the mat and then return.

9. Asking Questions and Seeking Help

BJJ is a complex martial art. Questions are welcomed and encouraged.

• Timing is Key: Wait until the instructor finishes demonstrating the technique. Then, raise your hand or wait for the designated Q&A time.

• Drill the Technique: When you are drilling with a partner, if you forget a step, first ask your partner. If neither of you is sure, stop the drill. Then, raise your hand to ask the instructor for clarification.