Follow the Rules
If you are a new student getting ready to begin Jiu Jitsu, it is important that you learn some of the basic rules of Jiu Jitsu and being a student at an academy so that you don’t make too bad of an impression on anyone. Even if you’ve already begun Jiu Jitsu, it’s a good idea to check out some of these rules to maintain some respect from your peers at the academy. Although most Jiu Jitsu academies are laid back and enjoyable, you still need to follow some simple, obvious rules, and I want to present them in a way that makes sense.
Pritt Mihkelson describes his training as “functionalistic minimalism” – based on fundamental postures and movements that ever grappler needs to know.
The first rule that I hold to utmost priority is cleanliness. There is absolutely zero tolerance for a lack of cleanliness on behalf of any student. This rule not only applies to your personal hygiene but also your Jiu Jitsu apparel. Your gis, rash guard, shorts, and whatever else you might wear has to be washed thoroughly after each use. No exceptions! This is a very important rule to follow because it will help prevent skin infections like MRSA and ring worm from spreading around the gym.
The second rule that a student must follow is to always be respectful and professional in their behavior. Jiu Jitsu academies are family environments and all members of the academy should behave that way. This means watching your language and topics of discussion. It also means being friendly and respectful to everyone at the academy. This rule also entails following the other rules your academy might have in place.
The first two rules I mentioned above are pretty obvious and well explained to new students. It is the minor, unwritten rules of Jiu Jitsu students tend to break. One of my biggest pet peeves is students who talk too much during practice. This can be distracting for everyone, it can also limit your progress, and it is also disrespectful to the instructors. Also, if you happened to be a white belt, or unskilled compared to your teammates, it is a bad idea to try teaching someone how to do something. If someone asks you a question you aren’t absolutely sure about, bring up to an instructor rather than trying to explain something you understand only poorly.
As I mentioned, most Jiu Jitsu academies are fairly laid back, but even at those academies there are some basic social skills and rules you must adhere to. This is not to control the students, but to create an environment that is friendly to all students and helps with everyone’s progress at the same time.
Bernardo Has Become World Renown For Teaching Older Guys Because His Moves Require Almost Zero Strength, Speed or Flexibility... How?
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