BJJ Etiquette in Nashville: 10 Rules Every White Belt Should Know
- Liberdade Jiu Jitsu
- Feb 7, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: May 23
Starting out in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can be as humbling as it is exciting. Whether you’re stepping onto the mats for the first time or you’ve been training a few months, learning proper gym etiquette is part of the journey. At Liberdade BJJ, we believe respect, cleanliness, and community are just as important as your technique.
Here’s a breakdown of 10 unspoken but essential etiquette rules that help keep our school running smoothly—and help you earn respect on and off the mat.
10 Unwritten Rules of Jiu Jitsu Etiquette
1. Keep Your Gi Clean, Always
No one wants to train with someone wearing a sweaty, unwashed gi. Show your teammates you care by showing up clean.
2. Trim Those Nails
Fingernails and toenails should be short and neat. It’s about hygiene—and not accidentally scratching your partners.
3. Footwear Discipline
No shoes on the mats. No bare feet in the restroom. Period.
4. Greet Your Partners
A handshake, fist bump, or quick “what’s up” shows you’re here to train with intention and respect.
5. Be Punctual and Quiet
If you’re late, enter quietly and respectfully. Avoid disrupting the class that’s already in progress.
6. Respect the Drill
This isn’t the World’s Strongest Man competition—focus on technique over strength. Slow is smooth. Smooth is fast.
7. Defer to Higher Belts
Let upper belts choose partners and positions first. It’s about tradition, respect, and learning the hierarchy.
8. Space Awareness
Give others room to roll. If your match is crashing into others, reset. Protect each other’s training space.
9. Organized Line-Up
Line up by rank when called. It’s not the military—it’s just smoother that way.
10. When Visiting Other Gyms
Wear a white gi and follow their house rules. It’s the universal sign of courtesy in the BJJ world.
Why BJJ Etiquette Matters in Nashville’s Best Jiu Jitsu Gyms
At Liberdade BJJ, etiquette isn’t about being strict—it’s about showing respect for your training partners, your instructors, and the art itself. These unspoken rules create the kind of environment where everyone—from brand new white belts to seasoned black belts—can thrive.
We’re proud to be considered among the best BJJ in Nashville, and part of that reputation is built on the culture we create. Respect, effort, and humility are cornerstones of our mat culture—and it all starts with etiquette.
Ready to Join a School That Respects the Art?
Want to train with a team that values technique and tradition? Whether you’re new or experienced, understanding BJJ etiquette in Nashville gyms can make or break your mat experience.

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