Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu mats are filled with 'blood, sweat, and tears', which can create a perfect breeding ground for germs and bacteria. That's why hygiene is important. This article explains how you can improve your experience on the mats and how better respect for your BJJ training partners...

Not only can poor hygiene put you and your training partners at risk of infection and illness, but it can also lead to an unpleasant experience on the mat. No one wants to train with someone who smells like a locker room or who has visible signs of a skin infection.

Luckily, maintaining good hygiene in BJJ is relatively simple. Regularly washing your gear, showering before and after training, and keeping your nails trimmed are just a few things you can do to help prevent the spread of germs and keep yourself and your training partners healthy.

So, whether you're a seasoned BJJ veteran or just starting out, remember that good hygiene is a crucial part of being a responsible and respected member of the BJJ community. Plus, it's just plain common sense. After all, nobody wants to be known as the smelly guy or gal on the mat!

Preventing The Spread of Bacteria and Viruses

Let's face it, nobody likes being sick. And in a sport like BJJ, where you're near your training partners, it's especially important to take steps to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses.

 

One of the easiest and most effective ways to do this is by washing your hands regularly. Whether you're blowing your nose, sneezing, or coughing, it's important to take a few extra seconds to lather up and scrub away any lingering germs. And if you don't have access to soap and water, no worries – just keep some alcohol-based hand gel or disposable wipes handy.

But let's say you're already feeling under the weather. In that case, it's best to stay home and avoid infecting your fellow BJJ enthusiasts. Sure, it might be tough to miss out on training, but it's a small sacrifice to make to keep everyone healthy and happy. Learn more about why training while sick is not a good idea!

So, don't let bacteria and viruses get the best of you. Keep your hands clean, stay home if you're feeling sick, and do your part to keep the BJJ community thriving.

Reducing The Risk of Skin infections

As much as we love rolling around on the mat, one downside of BJJ is the risk of skin infections. But fear not, my grappling friends – there are plenty of things you can do to help reduce your risk of getting infected.

First and foremost, it's crucial to wash your hands often and properly. This helps prevent the spread of germs that can cause infections. And if you happen to get a scrape, cut, or wound during training, make sure to wash it right away to minimize your risk of infection. After that, apply a topical antibiotic to the affected area and cover it with a bandage.

Another key to avoiding skin infections is to avoid sharing personal items like towels, razors, and bar soap. Sharing unclean clothing is also a bad idea. And let's be honest, do you really want to share your Submission Shark gear with anyone? No, probably not. Best to buy a pair for them.

It's also wise to wash your gi, rash guard, and other training gear after every session. This helps remove any bacteria or sweat particles that may be lingering on your clothing. And when you're at home, take the time to properly soak and disinfect

Lastly, try to avoid skin-to-skin contact with anyone who has a skin infection. This might mean skipping out on training for a few days or asking your partner to cover up any open wounds or infections. It's not worth risking your health or the health of others just to get in a few rolls.

 

So, stay clean, stay safe, and keep on rolling. With a little bit of care and caution, you can minimize your risk of skin infections and enjoy all the benefits that Brazilian jiu-jitsu has to offer.

Maintaining Overall Health and Well-Being

When it comes to BJJ, it's not just about being tough and resilient on the mat – it's also about taking care of your overall health and well-being. And as we've already discussed, good hygiene is a crucial part of that equation.

Washing your hands regularly and keeping any cuts or wounds clean can help prevent infections and keep you feeling your best. Plus, avoiding skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals can help keep you from getting sick in the first place.

But good hygiene isn't just about avoiding germs – it's also about feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin. No one wants to be the person with bad breath or body odor on the mat, right? So, take care to shower regularly and use deodorant or antiperspirant if needed.

 

And speaking of showers, it's also important to keep your gear clean and fresh. Washing your gi after each use and airing out your gear in between sessions can help prevent bacteria and unpleasant odors from building up.

 

Wet or damp gear is also a breeding ground for bacteria, so it's essential to make sure everything is completely dry before you put it away. Make sure to have multiple pairs of BJJ gis or no-gi gear so you can easily switch between training sessions and so that you aren't showing up in half-wet gear.

 

Finally, if you notice any signs of an infection such as redness, swelling, or pus-like discharge, it's best to seek medical attention immediately to nip the problem in the bud. Look for professional advice on how to improve your overall immune system. Whether it be taking the appropriate probiotics recorded to you by a health care provider, vitamin D, or other supplements–it's important to support your body’s natural defenses.

By taking care of your hygiene both on and off the mat, you'll not only feel better physically, but you'll also be more confident and comfortable in your own skin. So, take the time to prioritize your health and well-being – your body (and your training partners) will thank you.

Avoiding Bad Odors

Let's be honest here – nobody wants to be the person with bad body odor on the mat. But fear not, my grappling friends, because there are plenty of things you can do to keep yourself smelling fresh and clean.

 

Make sure to keep yourself squeaky clean. This means showering regularly, especially after training sessions, and using a good quality soap to help kill bacteria and keep your skin healthy.

Speaking of soap, consider switching to an antibacterial formula to help fight off any lingering germs. And don't forget to towel off well – moisture can lead to the growth of bacteria, which can cause unpleasant odors.

 

If you're particularly prone to sweating, it might be worth investing in an 'industrial strength' antiperspirant. These heavy-duty formulas can help keep sweat and odor at bay, even during intense training sessions. Organic, natural deodorants are also a great option if you want to avoid harsh chemicals.

And lastly, don't forget to keep your clothes clean. Wash your training gear after each use and make sure to air it out between sessions to help prevent bacteria and unpleasant odors from building up. Make sure to store your gear correctly. For example, wet gear should always be hung up and allowed to dry completely before you put it away.

Some essential oils can also be useful for keeping bad odors at bay. Tea tree oil, lavender, and rosemary are all known to have antibacterial properties, so consider spritzing a mix of these oils (plus some water) into your gear bag or onto your jiu-jitsu gi.

By following these simple steps, you can avoid becoming the stinky one on the mat and instead focus on what really matters – improving your BJJ skills and having fun. So, stay clean, stay fresh, and keep on rolling.

Improving The Lifespan of BJJ Equipment

BJJ gear is an excellent investment for your training, so it's important to take good care of it to make it last as long as possible. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to improve the lifespan of your equipment.

First off, when it comes to washing your BJJ kimono, make sure to use cold or cold/warm water and avoid using bleach at all costs. Bleach can weaken the fibers and cause your gear to break down more quickly, so stick to a mild detergent instead.

When it's time to dry your gear, avoid the temptation to toss it in the dryer. Instead, opt for line or hang drying to help minimize shrinkage and reduce wear and tear on the fabric. The heat from the dryer will cause your gi to fade, shrink or become brittle over time, so resist the urge and give it some TLC.

And if you're dealing with colored products like blue or black, it's especially important to take care when washing and drying. The dyes used in these products can be more susceptible to fading or bleeding, so make sure to follow the care instructions carefully.

By taking the time to properly care for your BJJ equipment, you'll not only save money in the long run, but you'll also be able to perform your best on the mat. After all, there's nothing worse than gear that's uncomfortable or falling apart mid-roll. So, show your gear some love and it'll keep you protected and looking sharp for many training sessions to come.

Submission Shark is known for its high-quality luxurious BJJ products that are designed to last. Check out our selection of kimonos, rash guards, and more here!

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By showing up to class in clean Submission Shark gear, you'll look and feel your best from warm-up to cool-down. So what are you waiting for? You'll look fresh and show respect for your fellow training partners by rolling in brand-new gear. Shop now to get your look on point and stay ready for whatever comes next!

Showing Respect For Training Partners By Having Good Hygiene

When attending a martial arts class or training session, it’s important to respect your fellow students and instructors by having good hygiene. This includes taking a shower before coming to the gym, wearing clean clothes in which you can move freely, and keeping short nails so as not to scratch your partners.

Additionally, when training with others, always make sure to utilize proper hygiene practices. This includes washing your hands before and after training, as well as using a towel or mat cleaner to wipe down any surfaces you use to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. Doing this will not only help keep everyone healthy but will also ensure that unpleasant odors don’t become an issue.

 

If blood or sweat stains become an issue, don’t worry; there are ways to combat those as well. You can use a specialty laundry detergent to help remove stains from your gi and rash guards, or simply soak them overnight in a mixture of laundry detergent and water. Just make sure to read the care instructions on the tags of your gear to ensure that you don’t accidentally damage it.

Purposely showing up to class in dirty gear not only shows a lack of respect for your instructors and training partners but can also lead to germs and bacteria spreading. Take care of your Submission Shark gear and it will take care of you, making sure that you stay safe and are able to maximize your time on the mats.

Cleaning Your Mouth Guard, Ear Guards, and Other Protective Gear

When it comes to other protective equipment, it’s important to take proper care as well. This includes cleaning your mouth guard after each session, which can be done by simply brushing it with a toothbrush and warm water. Don’t forget to store it in its case when you’re not using it to prevent it from drying out.

Ear guards and other protective gear should also be cleaned after each use. This can easily be done with a mixture of warm water and antibacterial soap. Make sure to rinse thoroughly and then store in a cool, dry place. Doing this will help ensure that your gear stays in good condition and will protect you from any unwanted germs or bacteria.

Your Gym Bag Is Home To Your BJJ Gear

It’s important to have a designated area for your BJJ gear, such as a gym bag. This will not only help keep it protected from dirt and debris but will also make it easier to transport your gear to and from the gym.

In addition, making sure the bag itself is clean can also help keep your gear in better condition. Wiping it down with a damp cloth after each use will help remove any dirt and debris that could transfer onto your gear. An organic spray cleaner can be used for more in-depth cleaning and to help ensure that germs and bacteria don’t start to accumulate.

The gym bag is commonly neglected when it comes to proper care and hygiene but this is an important step that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Promoting A Positive Gym Culture

A positive gym culture can make all the difference in your BJJ training experience. So, how can you help promote a welcoming and supportive environment at your gym?

First and foremost, it's important to ensure that the basics are covered. That means keeping the gym clean, well-maintained, and equipped with everything you need for a great workout. Good gym management is key to creating a positive environment.

But it's not just about the physical space – the people at your gym matter too. Hiring and training staff who are friendly, knowledgeable, and supportive can help foster a sense of community and camaraderie. If staff or even members are leaving a mess after training, don’t hesitate to speak up and remind everyone that cleanliness is a top priority.

There's no need to bully someone if they forget to clean up but a friendly reminder can go a long way in promoting good gym etiquette. Lastly, it's important to lead by example and show respect to your training partners and instructors. This can go a long way in creating an enjoyable and positive environment for everyone at the gym.

Hygiene Helps You Roll More

If you are neglecting your hygiene duties there's a good chance that your performance will suffer. Fewer people will want to roll with you and your instructors may give you fewer corrections due to the risk of getting sick.

It's human nature to stay away from someone who isn't taking care of themselves. Some people are higher in the spectrum of disgust while others are more relaxed about hygiene, but at the end of the day, it's best to stick to these basic hygiene rules.

The more mat time, the better you can become, so make sure to take the necessary precautions. Avoiding getting sick via proper hygiene will also help you stay on top of your game and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

So don’t forget to shower regularly, keep your gear clean, and practice good gym etiquette. Doing so will not only help you stay healthy and safe but can also give you an edge in your training sessions.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, good hygiene practices are essential for anyone who practices Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Not only do they help prevent the spread of infections, but they also ensure that you can roll with confidence and without offending your training partners.

Additionally, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene, brush your teeth, and use mouthwash before class to prevent bad breath. And let's not forget the benefits of good hygiene beyond BJJ - you'll feel better, smell better, and be less susceptible to illnesses in general.

So, whether you're a seasoned black belt or a brand-new white belt, make hygiene a top priority in your training routine.

Now, go forth and roll with the confidence that comes with knowing you're clean and fresh - your training partners will thank you!