etiquette + safety

At AXIOM, we believe that martial arts are more than just techniques and physical prowess; they are a path to personal growth and community. Our guidelines for etiquette and safety ensure that every student can train in a respectful and safe environment. From bowing on and off the mats to practicing good hygiene and respecting the tap, these rules embody the values that make our community strong. Whether you're stepping onto our mats for the first time or are a seasoned practitioner, these principles guide our interactions and make AXIOM a place where everyone can grow together.

Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with our guidelines below:

Etiquette: Be respectful.

• Bow on and off the mats.

• No shoes on the Mat.

• Wear shoes or flip flops to step on and off of the mats.

• Feet should be clean when stepping onto the mats.

• Trim finger and toenails.

• Wear a clean gi or no-gi attire – Wash your apparel including your belt after every workout.

• Practice good personal hygiene before coming to class.

• Stay home if you are sick.

• Wear athletic undergarments.

• Respect the tap – Always.

• Know which techniques or body manipulations are off limits – especially for white belts.

• Show respect for the class and instructor – Be on time, leave on time and be focused.

• Sit with respect and pay attention when your Coach/Professor is teaching.

• Show respect for your teammates when drilling and rolling.

• Show respect for higher belts in the class.

• Foster the improvement of newer, less experienced students in technique, respect and etiquette.

• End a roll with a handshake and a good word - Oos.

• Keep politics and other non-bjj related talk off the mats.

• Be Gracious in Victory and Defeat – Don’t boast about submitting someone, Don’t make excuses when submitted.

• Start each sparring session with hand slap and fist bump and say “Oos” to indicate respect and mutual training.

Ego: Leave it at the door. Come to class to learn, not to prove something.

Instruction: Let the Instructors teach.

• If you have something you want to show or work on, ask the Instructor or work on it on your own time.

• Do not speak while the Professors are instructing. Wait until they are done speaking and then ask your question.

Respect: This is earned over time.

• Always treat your Professors, Instructors, and peers with respect

• Jiu-Jitsu is not about domination, but about progression.

• Come to class with the intent and mindset of progression for yourself and your peers.

Safety: Your safety and your Jiu-Jitsu partners safety are your responsibility.

• You should either say "tap" or physically tap your opponent if you are caught in a submission and are at risk of being injured.

• You should not apply submissions to the point of injuring your partner. If your partner has not tapped and is at risk of being injured, you must release the submission. If you consistently injure your teammates, you cannot continue to train with us and will be asked to leave.

• Come to class sober, not intoxicated in any way.