Rolling Etiquette

1.       Slap hands/bump fists to start. This ensures both partners are ready.

2.       If no direction or specification from a coach, start from closed or open guard.

3.       Keep the intensity/speed to 70-75%. You’re here to learn, not “win”. This allows your mind time to process what’s going on, and come up with a solution.

4.       Never crank submissions to fast. Always give your partner time to tap out.

5.       Focus on using leverage and proper technique. Don’t inflict pain merely for pain’s sake.

6.       If you catch someone with a knee or elbow, apologize, and ask if they are alright, but don’t break position. Most often people are ok, but if they need to stop, then stop.

7.       If you do catch someone with a knee or elbow, slow down. You are moving too fast; you don’t yet have the body awareness to roll safely at that speed. Give it time and roll faster.

8.       Refrain from celebration when you get a submission.

9.       Refrain from outbursts or episodes of anger when you get caught in a submission.

10.   Take your partners size and consideration into it. If your opponent is smaller than you, focus on proper technique and avoid using your weight, size, and strength to crush them. If they are less skilled than you, do not tap them 10 times just because you can. Allow them to work their attacks. In turn that will allow you to work your defenses and mold your partners into quality training partners in due time.

11.   Tap early, tap often. Tapping isn’t losing it’s a way of saying “good job” to your training partner.

12.   Don’t talk a training partner through a technique they are trying to execute on you unless they ask. Teaching is the Coach’s job!   

13.   Don’t coach from the sidelines unless asked. Teaching is the Coach’s Job.

14.   Don’t discredit someone’s technique with comments like “you’re strong!” or “how much do you weigh?” after they submit you. Rather, compliment them on their fine execution of technique.

15.   Don’t continue to crank a choke if you are under the chin, or if it is clearly ineffective. This can lead to strained necks or other injuries.

16.   Always grab 3 or more fingers at a time, never less.

17.   If you get too close to the wall or off the mat, reset your roll in the center of the mat in the same position, if you cant recreate it, just start over from Guard and keep rolling.  

18.   If you bump into other training partners, the group that is the most stable and able to recreate their current position should move away and continue their roll in an open spot.

19.   Try to learn something every round.

20.   Most importantly, have fun or make it fun. If its not fun you wont want to do it and wont progress!

By signing this you agree to that you have read and understand the rules and etiquette for rolling.