Academy EtiquetteJiu-Jitsu is built on mutual respect. These guidelines ensure every student trains in a safe, welcoming, and productive environment.

MAT RULES

Code of ConductFollowing these guidelines shows respect for the art, the academy, and every person you train with.

Respect EveryoneTreat all training partners — regardless of rank, size, or experience — with genuine respect. Ego has no place on the mat.

Hygiene is Non-NegotiableTrim your fingernails and toenails. Shower before class if possible. Wear clean, freshly washed gi or training gear to every session.

Be On TimeArrive before class begins. Latecomers disrupt instruction and show disrespect to the instructor and your training partners. If you must arrive late, wait at the edge of the mat for permission to join.

No Shoes on the MatRemove shoes before stepping onto the mat. Wearing shoes on the mat, or walking barefoot off the mat and then back on, brings bacteria and debris that affect everyone.

Tap Early, Tap OftenThere is no shame in tapping. It is a sign of intelligence, not weakness. Protect yourself and your training partners by tapping before a submission is fully locked in.

Control Your IntensityMatch the energy and intensity of your training partner, especially with newer students. This is practice, not competition. Save your full intensity for appropriate sparring rounds.

Listen and LearnWhen the instructor is speaking, stop drilling and pay attention. Ask questions after the demonstration. Avoid side conversations during instruction.

Keep the Academy CleanHelp keep the training area tidy. Return equipment to its proper place, pick up tape from the floor, and report any maintenance issues to the instructor.

A Culture Worth ProtectingThese rules are not about control — they are about protecting the culture we are building together. Legacy X is a place where you should feel safe to make mistakes, ask questions, and grow. When everyone follows these guidelines, the entire academy benefits.If you ever have questions or concerns about mat etiquette, speak with an instructor. We would rather address something early than let a small issue grow into a bigger problem.