The Best Tips to Improve Hygiene in BJJ Training

Maintaining hygiene in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) training is essential for your health and that of your training partners. With close contact and shared mats, it's crucial to adopt effective hygiene practices to prevent infections and ensure a safe training environment. This guide provides the best tips to improve hygiene in BJJ training, helping you stay clean, healthy, and respectful on the mats.

Table of contents

• Introduction
• Personal Hygiene Tips
• Mat Hygiene
• Health Awareness
• Gear and Equipment Maintenance
• Community Practices
• Conclusion

Introduction

Hygiene is a critical aspect of BJJ training. Proper hygiene not only protects you from infections but also shows respect for your training partners and the dojo. This article covers essential hygiene tips to keep you and your training environment clean and safe.

Personal Hygiene Tips

Regular Showering

Shower before and after training to remove sweat, bacteria, and other contaminants. Use antibacterial soap for added protection against skin infections like staph and ringworm.

Clean Training Gear

Always wear a clean gi and rash guard. Wash your gear after each session to prevent the buildup of sweat, bacteria, and odors. Use a mild detergent and air dry to preserve the fabric.

Nail Care

Keep your fingernails and toenails trimmed short to prevent accidental scratches and cuts, which can be entry points for infections.

Hair Management

Tie back long hair to prevent it from getting in your face or your training partner's face. Consider wearing a headband or bandana to keep sweat and hair away.

Mat Hygiene

Clean Mats Regularly

Mats should be cleaned and disinfected before and after each class. Use a disinfectant solution designed for sports mats to eliminate bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Personal Mat Etiquette

Avoid walking barefoot off the mats to prevent bringing dirt and contaminants onto the training surface. Use designated footwear when off the mats and always wash your feet before stepping onto the mat.

Health Awareness

Skin Checks

Regularly inspect your skin for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or unusual bumps. If you notice any issues, refrain from training and consult a medical professional.

Reporting Infections

Immediately report any skin infections or illnesses to your instructor. Avoid training until you receive medical clearance to prevent spreading infections to others.

Gear and Equipment Maintenance

Clean Protective Gear

Regularly clean protective gear such as mouthguards, knee pads, and headgear. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and disinfecting these items.

Proper Storage

Store your training gear in a well-ventilated area to prevent mold and mildew. Avoid leaving damp gear in your gym bag, as this can promote bacterial growth and unpleasant odors.

Community Practices

Encourage Hygiene Practices

Promote good hygiene practices within your BJJ community. Lead by example and remind fellow practitioners of the importance of maintaining cleanliness.

Facility Cleanliness

Support your gym in maintaining a clean and hygienic environment. This includes ensuring the availability of cleaning supplies, disinfectants, and proper waste disposal.

Conclusion

Improving hygiene in BJJ training is a shared responsibility that benefits everyone. By following these tips, you can help create a clean, safe, and respectful training environment. Prioritizing hygiene not only protects your health but also enhances your training experience and shows consideration for your training partners.

Implement these hygiene practices to keep yourself and your dojo clean and healthy. Happy training!