Brighton BJJ School – Training & Rolling Etiquette

At Brighton BJJ School, we aim to create a respectful, safe, and positive training environment for everyone. Whetheryou're rolling hard or flowing light, these rules and recommendations helpensure that training remains fun, productive, and safe.

General Hygiene

  1. Come Clean
        Shower before training if you've had a busy day. Wear deodorant. Brush     your teeth. Keep your gear clean and odor-free. Always wear a rashguard or     t-shirt under your Gi.
  2. Trim Your Nails
        Keep fingernails and toenails short and filed. No one wants to leave the     mats looking like they wrestled a wild animal.
  3. Infections  & Skin Health
        If you have unusual rashes, sores, or suspect any skin infections, do  not train. Get checked by a doctor and keep your teammates safe.

Rolling Etiquette

  1. Consent  Matters
        Anyone can say no to a roll at any time. No one owes anyone a     round—don’t take it personally, and don’t pressure others.
  2. Communicate  Clearly
        Let your partner know about any injuries and agree on the roll's intensity     beforehand. Respect lighter rolls.
  3. Leg Lock Rules
        Dangerous leg locks (e.g., heel hooks) are allowed at all levels only  if both partners agree. Always ask first.
  4. Stop Anytime
        You can stop a roll at any point. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, you do not need to continue.
  5. No  Substances
        Do not come to class under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Rolling Safety

  1. No   Jumping Techniques
        No guard jumping, scissor takedowns, or flying submissions. Period. We don’t  want anyone dropping their weight on someone’s knees.
  2. Control Your Submissions
        Don’t crank submissions. Apply pressure slowly and maintain control. If  your partner escapes, work on your control.
  3. Know  Before You Go
        If you don’t understand heel hooks or similar techniques, let your partner know and tap when you get caught in them.
  4. It’s  Not a Competition
        Rolling is for learning, not winning. Treat it as practice, not a fight.
  5. When  in Doubt, Tap
        If you’re unsure about your safety, tap and reset. You can also ask your partner to recreate the situation for slow learning.
  6. Protect  Each Other
        Never drop your weight on your partner’s extended limbs. Think safety first—every time.
  7. Clear Tapping
        Tap visibly on your partner’s body and use a verbal tap as well. Some submissions come on fast.
  8. Be Mindful with Chokes

Apply chokes with care. Stay alert and be ready to stop and release if your partner taps or looks distressed.

 

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