|
The Rules of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu In The Dojo
For more than 50 years, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has been a challenging and rewarding experience for many people, hitting peak popularity within the last two decades. The easiest place to learn is in a gym, but before you go running out to sign up for a class, take a look at these rules and consider all you must obey when entering the Dojo.
1) Firstly, instructors are extremely respected and must always be addressed as “Sensei,” which means “the one who has gone before” in English. Even other students in higher levels than you must be addressed as Sir or Ma’am. Once outside the classroom, however, formalities are lost and you can call one another by first names, if you wish.
2) Remember to prepare for your classes as you would any other fitness or defense class, with a towel to wipe yourself down with and a water bottle to keep you hydrated. It is very important to keep hydrated while in class, for performance as well as health reasons.
3) Attire is key: if you are not in proper attire (usually the Gi), you will not be able to participate. Some Senseis will allow you to wear a t-shirt and sweat pants or shorts if you are waiting on your Gi to arrive or if you simply haven’t gotten one yet. This courtesy will only last so long, though.
4) Manners are of the utmost importance in Jiu Jitsu, even for necessities like going to the restroom. You must inform the instructor if you need to leave the class or sparring area for any reason.
5) Along with manners, arriving on time and ready to begin class is essential. If you know you will be late or absent, you must inform the instructor prior to class.
6) Upon entering the Dojo, before a fight, and upon leaving the Dojo, you must bow, bending forward with your feet together and both hands on the front of your thighs. Remember to keep eye contact at all times.
7) In the Dojo, brown belts sit to the left of the instructor and green and blue belts sit to the right. New members will have white belts and will be place in front of the instructor. When signaled, you and the rest of the class will bow to the instructor, and he will return it.
8) Proper sitting position is important in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes. Sit on your knees with your feet tucked under your butt, or cross-legged. Avoid sitting any other way, as it will be considered rude.
9) Sparring is done in turns and when it is not your turn, take notes on what is happening to study at home, and also to turn in to your instructor. These notes are used to help determine your “grade” to advance you to the next belt.
10) A match is won by one opponent making the other tap the mat, in which case the winning opponent releases the other immediately. Showing such courtesy will ensure returned courtesy later.
The rules of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu are specific and are set in place for the safety of the fighters. If you have any questions or concerns, you should address them to the instructor before fighting.
|