Review of Etiquette & Safety: How to Be Everyone’s Favourite Partner

Overview
BJJ is close‑quarters and cooperative by necessity. Etiquette isn’t fussy; it’s how we keep training partners and mats healthy.

Who benefits
- New members; experienced athletes needing a refresher.

Pay‑off
Clean gis/rashguards, trimmed nails, prompt taps, and honest communication equal more rounds and faster progress. You’ll build a reputation for being technical and safe—partners will seek you out.

Watch‑outs
- Don’t spike, slam or reap recklessly.
- If you injure someone by accident, apologise and check in.
- Illness or skin issues? Sit out. Hygiene is community care.

Try this round
- Tapping drill: Apply submissions at 10–20% until a clear tap; release immediately, no theatrics.
- Tempo rounds: Agree light, medium or comp pace before slapping hands.
- Space awareness: Practise resets when you drift into other pairs—no egos about position.

Final word
Technical + considerate beats wild + strong over a season. Protect partners and they’ll protect your progress.

-Chuck