RULES, PROTOCOL AND ETIQUETTE
Hygiene Protocol
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, hygiene is fundamental. Because this is a close-contact martial art, every training session involves direct physical contact, shared space, and continuous partner interaction.
At Colectivo JJ, we take this responsibility seriously. Cleanliness is not a detail—it is part of our culture, our respect for each other, and our approach to training safely and consistently.
1. Personal cleanliness is mandatory
Every practitioner must arrive clean and prepared to train. Regular hygiene habits such as showering, using deodorant, and maintaining general cleanliness are expected at all times.
2. Nails must always be trimmed and filed
Fingernails and toenails must be short and smooth. Even minor sharp edges can cause cuts, infections, or unnecessary injuries during grappling.
3. Training gear must be freshly washed
Your gi and/or rashguard must be clean before every class. Reused, sweaty, or unwashed gear increases the risk of bacterial and fungal infections and is not permitted.
4. Feet must be clean before mat entry
Feet carry dirt and bacteria from outside environments. Always clean your feet before stepping onto the mat. Never enter the training area barefoot after walking outside.
5. Cover all cuts, wounds, and skin abrasions
All open wounds must be properly covered with secure bandages or tape. If a wound cannot be safely protected, training is not allowed.
6. Skin infections are not allowed on the mat
Any contagious skin condition—including fungal infections or bacterial outbreaks—must be fully healed before returning to training. This is essential for the safety of the team.
7. Maintain acceptable hygiene standards at all times
Unwashed equipment, strong body odor, or poor personal hygiene is not acceptable in a shared training environment. Respect for your teammates includes taking care of yourself.
8. Clean body, clean training environment
Hygiene reflects discipline and awareness. Entering the mat clean shows readiness, respect, and responsibility toward the group.
9. Individual responsibility
Hygiene is not enforced—it is owned. Each practitioner is fully responsible for maintaining their own standards before stepping onto the mat.
LOCKER ROOM RULES & ETIQUETTE
1. Feel welcome.
Enter with respect. Every practitioner—beginner or advanced—shares the same space and responsibility.
2. Trim and file your nails.
Short, smooth nails prevent cuts and infections. This is mandatory before every class.
3. Clean your feet.
The mat is a shared training ground. Step onto it clean.
4. Wear a clean gi and/or rashguard.
Your uniform must be freshly washed. Hygiene is part of discipline.
5. Keep your gi closed and tie your belt before leaving.
Arrive on the mat prepared. Maintain your uniform properly at all times.
6. No jewelry: rings, watches, necklaces, or piercings.
Remove all items that can cause injury to you or your training partners.
7. Wear sandals. Never walk barefoot or in socks.
Protect the mat from contamination. Use sandals at all times off the mat.
8. Do not train with skin infections or open wounds.
Conditions such as fungus or untreated cuts put everyone at risk. Sit out and recover.
9. If you are sick, do not train. Go home and recover.
Respect your teammates’ health. Training can wait.
10. No shirtless or inappropriate attire outside the locker room.
Maintain proper clothing and conduct in all academy areas.
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
1. Re-rack all equipment.
Keep the area organized so everyone can train efficiently.
2. Wipe down after use.
Clean equipment after training for hygiene and respect.
3. Do not leave weights on bars.
Reset equipment after use to keep the space safe and ready.
4. Use equipment safely and with control.
Focus on proper technique to avoid injuries and improve results.
5. Share and rotate when busy.
Be mindful of others and allow fair access to equipment.
6. Keep walkways clear.
Maintain open space for safety and movement.
7. Train with proper form.
Quality of movement is more important than load.
8. Follow footwear policy.
Respect the rules of the space to keep it clean and safe.
9. Store personal items properly.
Keep the area free of clutter and hazards.
10. Report damaged equipment.
Help maintain a safe training environment for everyone.
MAT RULES & ETIQUETTE
1. Bow or acknowledge before entering.
Entering the tatami is entering a place of discipline and learning. Bowing is a sign of respect to the art, the space, and those who train before and with you.
2. Remove your sandals and place them neatly before stepping on the mat.
Order begins with small actions. Keeping footwear off the mat preserves its cleanliness and reflects respect for the training environment.
3. Keep the mat clean at all times.
The tatami represents the space where we develop physically and mentally. Maintaining it clean is a shared responsibility and a sign of respect for the practice.
4. No food, drinks, or gum on the tatami.
The mat is reserved for training. Keeping it free from distractions honors its purpose.
5. Good hygiene required.
Cleanliness is part of discipline. Taking care of your body shows respect for your training partners and the art itself.
6. Respect the silence.
A focused environment allows for deeper learning. Control your voice as you control your body.
7. Be your best version.
Train with intention, humility, and discipline. What you bring to the mat defines your progress.
8. Train with control at all times.
Technique over force. Control reflects mastery and ensures the safety and trust between practitioners.
9. Tap early. Release immediately.
Understanding limits is part of martial awareness. Respect your partner’s safety as you would your own.
10. Be aware of your surroundings.
Awareness is a core martial skill. Protect the space, your partners, and the flow of training.