training rules

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There are some basic rules which are common to every mat.  Respect our martial art philosophy and read the following guide. 

• The student must respect the techniques, philosophy, and knowledge as it is taught by the Teacher and their Masters.
• The student must have the moral and social responsibility to never use these techniques to hurt anybody or to show off. 
• The philosophy of this training is to build a better society and to develop individual character. 
• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is not a street fight, so when you're on the mat, always preserve your opponent.
• The philosophy is to control your aggressive instincts and earn focus in the path to test your limits.  The secret is not in the pure and raw strength, but in the flexibility, synchronization, mind control and humility.  Insolence is not tolerable.
• You must protect yourself from contusions and protect your training partners. 
• Everyone must know your limitations and respect them.  Everyone has different physical conditions, skills and objectives. 
• If you think it will help improve your understanding, obey the Teacher's instructions first before making suggestions.
• Respect, discipline and harmony are some of the most important aspects of maintaining a good environment at the academy. 

behavior & etiquette on the mat

• You must bow before entering the mat.  This is simply done by standing erect with feet together and hands on the front of the thighs.  Then, while looking at the Master's picture on the wall, a bow is made by bending forward and sliding the hands down the thighs to the knees for about one second, then standing straight again.  Repeat again for the Teacher.  This lets the instructors know who they have on the mat so they will know just where to place the newcomer if class is in progress.  The same set of bows is executed if the student finds it necessary to leave the mat while class is in progress. 
• No student should begin drills without the instructor's supervision or that of the senior students. 
• The student should never use any techniques not previously explained by an instructor.  Without previous experience, the most complicated techniques can lead to serious injuries.  Various sacrifice techniques also need careful previous preparation.
• The student should be severely warned against breaking a fall in the instinctive manner, with hand outstretched and locked at the elbow and wrist. 
• The student should not substitute strength for skill and technique.  Using too much force is one of the major causes of accidents on the mat.
• Wash your gi frequently.  Keep it clean and in good repair (free of rips and tears).  The gi should also be hung up to air dry after each practice session.
• Fingernails and toenails should always be clipped short to prevent scratching or harming others.  Rings, piercings, and all jewelry must be removed.  The gi must be free of pins and any other hard or sharp objects which might be hazardous.
• Students should maintain the highest degree of personal cleanliness.  Jiu-jitsu is a contact sport. 
• When a throw is executed, the student should always control the opponent's fall.
• Students must be punctual at all scheduled meetings.
• Students must not chew gum or have candy or food in their mouth while in the dojo.
• Students of lower ranks must seek to exercise with higher ranking opponents.
• Students must not have a conversation while a technique is being shown.
• Students should always be courteous and helpful toward each other.
• Report all injuries to the teacher immediately.