Preparation: Mandatory Hygiene and Gear

Respect for your training partners begins with strict personal hygiene. Jiu-Jitsu is a close-contact sport. Maintaining cleanliness is non-negotiable and represents the most fundamental rule of mat etiquette at Gracie Barra Upland.

Personal Cleanliness is Paramount

Before arriving at the academy, students must ensure a high level of personal hygiene.

• Nails: Keep fingernails and toenails trimmed short and clean. Long or ragged nails can scratch training partners, potentially causing injury or spreading infection.

• Uniform (Gi) Care: Always wash your Gi (uniform) after every single training session. Never wear a dirty or damp Gi to class. A clean uniform prevents the spread of bacteria and shows respect for the community.

• Body Odor: Use deodorant. Arrive freshly showered. Strong odors, whether body odor or excessive cologne/perfume, distract others and are disrespectful in close-contact training.

• Open Wounds: Cover any cuts, scrapes, or open wounds completely with a clean bandage and athletic tape. Do not train with contagious skin conditions. If you are unsure, consult your Professor immediately.

Essential Gear for Beginners

New students in Upland do not need expensive equipment immediately, but a few items are critical for comfort and safety.

• The Gi: A required uniform for BJJ. Gracie Barra Upland typically requires the official Gi for class attendance.

• Rash Guard: Wear a rash guard or a fitted t-shirt underneath the Gi top. This wicks away sweat, prevents friction burns, and maintains hygiene during training.

• Water Bottle: Stay hydrated. Training is physically demanding. Have a dedicated water bottle ready to use during short breaks.

• Mouthguard (Recommended): Highly recommended, particularly during live sparring (rolling), to protect teeth and soft tissues.

If you have questions about which gear is necessary for your first class in Upland, feel free to contact the academy directly by visiting https://gbupland.com.

The Cardinal Rules of Mat Etiquette (Before Class)

The mat is considered sacred ground in martial arts. Adhering to the protocol before class demonstrates discipline and humility.

Respecting the Training Area

The following rules apply the moment you enter the Gracie Barra Upland training facility.

1. Never Wear Shoes on the Mat: Shoes carry dirt and pathogens from outside. Always remove shoes before stepping onto the mat. Wear simple slip-on sandals (zōri or flip-flops) when traveling between the changing room, the bathroom, and the mat area.

2. Bow When Entering and Exiting: This simple gesture acknowledges the learning environment and the community. Bow facing the center of the mat or the Professor when stepping on and off the tatame.

3. Punctuality: Arrive on time for class. If you arrive late, wait respectfully at the edge of the mat until the Professor acknowledges you and gives permission to join the class. Do not interrupt the warm-up or instruction.

4. No Sitting with Feet Pointing at Anyone: When sitting on the edge of the mat waiting for class to start or taking a break, ensure your feet are not pointing directly at the Professor or a higher-ranking student. Sit cross-legged or kneel.

Uniform and Appearance

Your appearance reflects your attitude toward the training.

• Gi Readiness: Ensure your Gi belt is tied correctly before stepping onto the mat. If your belt comes undone during training, step off the mat quickly to re-tie it, minimizing disruption.

• Jewelry and Accessories: Remove all jewelry, watches, rings, earrings, and piercings before class. These items can easily injure yourself or a partner during grappling.

Conduct During the Gracie Barra Class

The class environment is structured and demands focused attention. Your behavior during instruction is vital for safety and effective learning.

Interaction with the Professor

The Professor leads the class and deserves your complete attention and respect. They possess the Experience, Expertise, Authority, and Trustworthiness (E-E-A-T) necessary to guide your journey.

• Listen Actively: When the Professor is demonstrating a technique, stop whatever you are doing immediately. Sit down, kneel, or stand attentively. Do not talk to your partners while the instructor is speaking.

• Asking Questions: Raise your hand if you have a question. Wait for the Professor to acknowledge you. Avoid interrupting the flow of instruction unnecessarily.

• Address by Title: Address your instructor as “Professor” or “Coach.” This acknowledgment of their rank and dedication is standard practice.

Safety and Sparring Protocol

Safety is the absolute priority during drilling and live rolling. You are responsible for your own safety and that of your partner.

• The Tap: The tap is the most important tool in BJJ. Use it immediately when caught in a submission or when you feel pain. Tap clearly—either by patting your opponent three times or by tapping the mat. Once a tap occurs, the opponent must release the submission instantly.

• Controlling Intensity: During drilling, focus on technique, not strength. When rolling, especially with beginners or smaller partners, adjust your intensity to match theirs. Avoid “winning” the training session; focus on learning.

• Avoid Conversation: Unless directly related to the technique being practiced, avoid excessive socializing while drilling. Maintain focus.

Terminology and Post-Class Conduct

Understanding basic BJJ terminology helps you follow instruction efficiently. Also, proper conduct after class concludes your training respectfully.

Key Terms for Beginners

While you will learn many Portuguese commands, a few are essential for your first class in Upland.

• Oss (pronounced ‘oss’): A versatile Japanese term adapted in BJJ. Use it to acknowledge the Professor, confirm understanding, or greet a training partner. It signifies respect and commitment.

• Posição: Portuguese for “position.” Often used when drilling to signal moving back to the starting point of the technique.

• Kimono: Another term for the Gi.

• Drill: Repetitive practice of a technique with a partner, without resistance, to build muscle memory.

• Roll (or Rolling): The term for live sparring, where partners utilize techniques against active resistance.

The Post-Class Routine

Once the official training concludes, maintain professional conduct.

• Line Up: At Gracie Barra academies, students line up after class, usually by rank, for a final bow and announcements.

• Thank Your Partners: Always shake hands or fist-bump every person you drilled and rolled with. Thanking your partners is a fundamental sign of respect. They helped you learn and grow.

• Clean Up: If instructed, assist in sweeping or cleaning the mats. Maintaining the cleanliness of the training area is a shared responsibility.