If you’ve spent any amount of time training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), you already know it’s one of the most rewarding martial arts around. Rolling with your teammates, pushing your limits, and building skill on the mats is an amazing experience. But there’s one part of BJJ nobody really loves to talk about—skin infections.
Yeah, we’re talking about ringworm and staph. Both are common in gyms, and if you’re not careful, they can take you out of training for weeks. The good news? With a little bit of effort and some smart habits, you can protect yourself, your teammates, and keep the mats a safe place for everyone.
This article is going to break down everything you need to know about hygiene in the BJJ gym. We’ll cover what ringworm and staph actually are, why they spread so easily in martial arts, and most importantly, how to prevent them. Whether you’re brand new to jiu jitsu or a seasoned purple belt, this is the kind of info every grappler should know.
Let’s be real—BJJ is a close-contact sport. You’re literally rolling around on the ground with other sweaty humans multiple times a week. That combination of skin-to-skin contact, sweat, and mats makes the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.
When one person slacks on hygiene, it’s not just their problem. Skin infections spread fast in training environments. That’s why every gym worth training at should make hygiene a top priority.
Good hygiene isn’t just about looking clean. It’s about protecting your teammates, showing respect for the people you train with, and keeping your gym culture healthy and safe.
First, let’s clear something up: ringworm isn’t caused by a worm. It’s actually a fungal infection. The “ring” part comes from the circular rash it often creates. It can show up anywhere on the body—arms, legs, back, chest, and even the scalp.
Red, circular rash with a raised border
Itching or burning sensation
Sometimes flaky or scaly skin
Ringworm is contagious, and it spreads through skin contact, shared gear, or dirty mats. That means if someone trains with ringworm, they’re almost guaranteed to spread it to others.
Staph is short for Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria that lives on the skin. Most of the time, it’s harmless. But if it gets into cuts, scrapes, or open wounds, it can cause infections.
Staph can be mild or serious. Mild cases might just look like pimples or boils, but more severe cases can require antibiotics or even hospital treatment. MRSA, a resistant form of staph, is particularly dangerous.
Red, swollen bumps or boils
Pus-filled areas
Pain and tenderness
Sometimes fever or chills if it spreads
In a contact sport like BJJ, staph is a big concern. One untreated infection can easily spread to others if proper hygiene isn’t followed.
You might be wondering: why does BJJ get hit with these issues so often? Here’s why:
Skin-to-skin contact: Rolling means you’re in constant contact with partners. If someone has an infection, it’s easy to pass it on.
Shared mats and gear: Everyone trains on the same surface. If mats aren’t cleaned properly, they become a hot spot for bacteria and fungi.
Small cuts and scrapes: Grapplers often get mat burns, scratches, or small cuts. These open doors for bacteria like staph.
Sweat: A sweaty environment speeds up the spread of germs.
High frequency of training: People train several times a week, which means more opportunities for germs to spread quickly.
It’s not about being dirty—it’s about the environment. That’s why prevention is so important.
The best defense against these infections is a good offense. Here’s what every grappler should be doing:
Don’t wait around after practice. The faster you wash off sweat, dirt, and germs, the better. Use a good antibacterial soap or body wash designed for athletes. Pay special attention to areas where skin infections are common: armpits, groin, feet, and anywhere your gi or rash guard rubbed against your skin.
This one’s non-negotiable. Never wear the same gi or rash guard two days in a row without washing it. Sweat-soaked gear is a breeding ground for bacteria. Toss your gear in the wash after every class, and don’t forget your belt—yes, that needs washing too.
Long fingernails and toenails can scratch training partners, creating open wounds where bacteria can enter. Trim them regularly and keep them smooth.
If you’ve got a cut, scrape, or mat burn, clean it well and cover it with a bandage before training. Exposed wounds are basically an invitation for staph.
This might be the hardest one for passionate grapplers, but it’s also the most important. If you notice a suspicious rash or bump, sit out until you’ve seen a doctor. Training with an infection puts the whole gym at risk.
Don’t share towels, water bottles, or personal items. That’s an easy way to spread germs.
Always wear shoes or flip-flops off the mat.
Never walk barefoot in the bathroom and then back onto the mats.
Help keep the mats clean by wiping them down after class if your gym asks.
Not all gyms take cleanliness equally seriously. A good gym should:
Clean mats daily (preferably after every class).
Provide hand sanitizer or wipes.
Enforce rules about not training with infections.
Encourage members to speak up about hygiene issues.
Knowing what to look for can save you from bigger problems. If you see something unusual on your skin, take it seriously.
Ringworm: Circular red rash, often itchy.
Staph: Painful red bumps, sometimes filled with pus.
Don’t brush it off as just a pimple or scratch. If you’re not sure, get checked by a doctor. Better safe than sorry.
If you do end up with an infection, here’s what usually happens:
Ringworm: Treated with antifungal creams or oral medication, depending on severity.
Staph: Treated with antibiotics. Serious cases (like MRSA) may require stronger medical treatment.
The key is early detection. The sooner you start treatment, the faster you’ll heal and the less chance you’ll spread it to others.
Preventing infections isn’t just about personal responsibility—it’s about creating a gym culture that values hygiene. Coaches and students alike need to be on the same page.
A gym that’s serious about hygiene will:
Educate members on prevention.
Make cleaning supplies accessible.
Hold people accountable for showing up with dirty gear.
Encourage open conversations about health issues without judgment.
When everyone buys into this mindset, the risk of infections drops dramatically.
If your child trains BJJ, hygiene is even more important. Kids don’t always notice small rashes or remember to wash their gear. Parents should help by:
Checking their child’s skin regularly.
Making sure uniforms are washed after every class.
Reminding them to shower right after training.
Talking openly about why hygiene matters in sports.
The last thing you want is for your child to sit out weeks of training because of an easily preventable infection.
You can do everything right personally, but if your gym doesn’t take hygiene seriously, you’re still at risk. That’s why choosing the right gym makes all the difference.
If you’re in Madison, Wisconsin, for example, Pirate BJJ is Madison’s premier BJJ gym that puts hygiene and safety at the top of its priorities. They offer kids and adult Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes in a clean, welcoming environment. The first week is free, so you can check it out, get a feel for the training, and see firsthand how seriously they take cleanliness.
Training in a gym that values both skill and safety ensures you can focus on what matters most—learning, improving, and enjoying the art of jiu jitsu.
Here’s the thing: not every gym balances skill development with a strong commitment to safety. That’s where Pirate Brazilian Jiu Jitsu shines. By combining expert instruction with a clean, friendly atmosphere, they make sure every student—kids and adults alike—gets the best possible training experience without unnecessary risks.
Whether you’re brand new to the sport or looking for a new training home, finding a gym like this gives you peace of mind. You’ll know your coaches and teammates are as invested in your health as they are in your progress.
BJJ is more than just a sport. It’s a lifestyle, a community, and for many people, a second family. Keeping that family safe means taking hygiene seriously.
Ringworm and staph might sound scary, but they’re both preventable with the right habits:
Shower after training.
Wash your gear every time.
Cover cuts.
Don’t train when you’re sick or infected.
Train in a gym that puts hygiene first.
When everyone works together to keep the mats clean and safe, the whole community benefits. You’ll train more, progress faster, and spend less time sidelined by preventable issues.
So take care of yourself, respect your teammates, and remember—good hygiene is part of good jiu jitsu.
And if you’re in Madison looking for a place that gets this balance right, go check out Pirate BJJ. The first week is free, and it might just be the start of your jiu jitsu journey in the cleanest, friendliest environment possible.
Learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can feel overwhelming at first, especially when you start drilling submissions. The positions, grips, pressure, and timing all matter, and new students often feel unsure about how to connect everything smoothly. Training in a high quality Jiu Jitsu gym can make a significant difference, especially when the instruction breaks down each technique in a clear and practical way. If you are training in Madison or plan to join a program like piratebjj which offers a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym experience, you will quickly discover how empowering mastering your first submissions can be.
This detailed guide outlines the foundational submissions every beginner should know, how to learn them safely, and what to focus on during your BJJ journey. The goal is to help you understand not only how submissions work but also how to practice them with confidence.
Submissions are a core element of BJJ, which is built on the idea that a smaller person can neutralize a larger opponent through leverage, positioning, and technique. Submissions allow a practitioner to end a fight without striking, relying on joint locks or chokes that control your partner until they submit.
A beginner-friendly Jiu Jitsu gym usually starts with teaching submissions because:
They reveal how leverage wins over strength.
They increase your confidence quickly.
They teach essential body mechanics for future techniques.
They encourage calmness under pressure.
Madison has a growing BJJ community, and programs like piratebjj which offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym sessions help beginners build a strong technical foundation.
Before exploring the specific submissions you will encounter in your Madison classes, it is important to understand how to learn them safely and effectively.
1. Position before submission Controlling an opponent is always more important than finishing the submission. Without proper control, they will escape easily.
2. Tap early, tap often In every Jiu Jitsu gym, instructors encourage students to tap quickly during training. This prevents injuries and builds trust between partners.
3. Understand the mechanics Most submissions rely on consistent principles, such as isolating a limb or restricting airflow. Focusing on mechanics helps you master techniques faster.
4. Drill slowly at first Speed comes later. Precision comes first.
5. Respect your partner’s safety BJJ is cooperative during training. The goal is to learn, not overpower your partner.
When you follow these principles, your time on the mat at a Madison Jiu Jitsu gym becomes more productive and safe.
Below are the fundamental submissions you will encounter early in your training. These come from traditional closed guard, mount, side control, and other foundational positions. Learning these builds your submission vocabulary and strengthens your overall BJJ game.
The armbar is one of the most iconic techniques in BJJ. It works by hyperextending the opponent’s elbow joint through leverage, not strength.
Teaches hip movement
Builds an understanding of angles
Works regardless of size differences
Common in self defense and sport settings
Start in closed guard and secure a strong grip on your partner’s arm.
Break their posture by pulling them forward.
Place one foot on the hip to pivot your body.
Swing your leg over their head.
Squeeze your knees together and lift your hips to finish.
Not controlling the shoulder line
Allowing too much space between your knees
Forgetting to keep the thumb pointing upward
You will drill this submission frequently at any Madison Jiu Jitsu gym and particularly in programs such as piratebjj which offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym instruction.
The triangle choke is a powerful technique where you use your legs to encircle the opponent’s neck and arm, cutting off blood flow.
Builds comfort with guard retention
Teaches leg engagement, which is critical in BJJ
Encourages understanding of posture control
Start from closed or open guard.
Pull your opponent’s head down and trap one arm inside your legs.
Shoot your leg over their shoulder and lock your legs together.
Rotate your angle until you face the trapped arm.
Squeeze your legs and apply pressure.
Not creating a proper angle
Leaving your legs loose
Forgetting to pull the head down
The triangle choke will appear repeatedly in Madison classes, especially when drilling guard attacks.
The guillotine choke is a front headlock choke that uses your arms to apply pressure to the opponent's neck.
Works in self defense
Simple mechanics
Easy to transition from takedown scrambles
Wrap your arm around the opponent’s neck with their head under your armpit.
Secure your hands together using the appropriate grip.
Sit guard or stay standing depending on the variation.
Lift your elbow and lean back to apply pressure.
Incorrect grip
Poor hip engagement
Pulling sideways instead of upward
Your instructor at any Madison Jiu Jitsu gym will help refine this technique, and piratebjj which offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym classes frequently emphasizes proper guillotine entries.
Often referred to as the highest percentage submission in grappling, the rear naked choke works from the strongest control position, the back.
Works with minimal strength
Teaches positional dominance
Foundation for advanced back attacks
Secure back control with hooks or body triangle.
Slide one arm under the opponent’s chin.
Lock the choking arm with your other hand behind their head.
Squeeze your elbows together and pull backward.
Losing back control too early
Crossing your ankles when you should not
Using arm strength instead of whole body mechanics
The rear naked choke is essential for anyone training BJJ in Madison.
This shoulder lock is often taught from the mount or side control.
Strong control positions
Teaches joint isolation skills
Secure mount or side control.
Pin your opponent’s wrist to the mat.
Slide your other arm under their arm and grab your own wrist.
Lift their elbow while keeping their wrist pinned.
Allowing your opponent to straighten their arm
Losing the pinned wrist
Using speed instead of slow, controlled pressure
Instructors at a Madison Jiu Jitsu gym will emphasize control over strength for this technique.
Simply learning a submission is not enough. The key to improving in BJJ is consistent, thoughtful training.
Submissions only work when your position is stable. Training in a structured Jiu Jitsu gym helps you understand transitions and control.
Guard retention
Hip movement
Proper weight distribution
Grip sequences
Not all drilling is equal. Beginners should drill slowly, focusing on precision.
Repeat each movement until it becomes automatic.
Ask your partner to offer moderate resistance once you understand the movement.
Focus on your breathing and posture.
Switch angles frequently to understand variations of the same technique.
Advanced students flow from one submission to another effortlessly. Beginners can start learning simple chains early.
Armbar to triangle
Triangle to omoplata
Guillotine to mount transition
Americana to straight armbar
Your Madison Jiu Jitsu gym instructor will guide you through these connections over time.
Beginners often forget that studying defense is as important as studying offense.
When you understand how a partner escapes, you understand how to prevent that escape.
Posture control in guard
Hand fighting on the back
Safe arm positioning
How to frame properly
Your knowledge of defense strengthens your submission skills.
Live training, known as rolling, is where you test your techniques. This is the moment when your drilling becomes practical.
Choose one submission to focus on per session.
Do not rely on strength or speed.
Try starting from positions related to the submission you want to improve.
Ask higher belts for feedback.
At piratebjj which offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym classes, instructors often give structured rolling guidance so beginners progress safely and confidently.
Choosing the right place to train affects your BJJ journey significantly. A high quality Jiu Jitsu gym provides structured teaching, safety, and community.
1. Expert guidance Qualified instructors break techniques down clearly and help you avoid injuries.
2. Progress tracking Beginners benefit from programs designed to build fundamental skills step by step.
3. Safe environment Safety culture ensures respectful training between partners.
4. Regular drilling and sparring Consistent practice is essential for mastering submissions.
5. Encouraging community Training partners help you grow and stay motivated.
Madison programs like piratebjj which offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym training follow these principles to support beginners and advanced practitioners alike.
Reduce overload by focusing on a small set of submissions at a time. Mastering a few core techniques gives you confidence and progress.
Spend more time drilling positions such as mount, guard, and side control. Submissions work only when control is present.
Practice slowly and communicate with your training partner. Confidence builds with repetition.
Tapping is part of learning. Every experienced practitioner taps thousands of times. Embrace the process.
Never wait for pain.
Your partner’s safety always comes first.
Let your partner know if something feels uncomfortable.
Cold muscles increase injury risk.
Correct technique prevents bad habits.
These habits create a safe and enjoyable training environment at any Madison Jiu Jitsu gym.
Mastering basic submissions is one of the most rewarding milestones in your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey. It builds confidence, teaches body control, and opens the door to more advanced techniques. Whether you are practicing armbars, triangle chokes, guillotines, rear naked chokes, or shoulder locks, the key is consistent practice, clear guidance, and maintaining a positive training mindset.
Making new friends as an adult can be challenging, especially in a world where social circles often shrink after school or college. Yet, finding a community where you can share experiences, grow, and connect with others is possible through sports. One of the most effective ways to meet like-minded individuals is by practicing BJJ or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Madison, the martial arts scene is thriving, and gyms like Pirate BJJ offer more than just technical training—they create a welcoming environment where friendships naturally form.
This article will explore how joining Pirate BJJ and participating in martial arts classes in Madison can help you build meaningful friendships while improving your fitness, confidence, and mental resilience.
Unlike solitary workouts like running or lifting weights, BJJ emphasizes interaction, collaboration, and trust. Here’s why it’s an excellent environment for social connections:
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is fundamentally a partner sport. Most drills, including warm-ups, positional exercises, and sparring, require working with a partner. This interaction naturally promotes communication and cooperation.
Learning to trust your partner during training builds bonds quickly
Practicing techniques together encourages encouragement and mutual growth
Shared challenges, like rolling against more experienced practitioners, foster camaraderie
Gyms like Pirate BJJ in Madison are known for their friendly and inclusive culture. Regardless of age, fitness level, or experience, everyone is welcome, and members often support each other both on and off the mats.
Community events and open mat sessions allow for casual socializing
Belt promotion ceremonies celebrate personal growth collectively
Veteran members often mentor newcomers, creating instant connections
One of the strongest bonds in martial arts comes from working toward shared objectives. In BJJ, students strive for improved techniques, belt promotions, and personal milestones. Sharing these victories, big or small, strengthens relationships.
Rolling sessions (sparring) create mutual respect
Celebrating promotions or successful competition results fosters a sense of belonging
Overcoming challenges together helps form lasting friendships
If you are new to BJJ, taking the first step might feel intimidating. However, the environment is designed to be welcoming, especially at gyms like Pirate BJJ.
Most gyms in Madison offer classes specifically for beginners. These sessions focus on fundamentals and create a safe space for newcomers to learn without judgment.
Ask questions and engage with instructors—they are usually approachable and eager to help
Attend multiple beginner sessions to meet other newcomers
Participate in partner drills and try to rotate partners for broader interactions
Open mat sessions allow students to train freely without a structured class. This is a perfect opportunity to practice techniques, ask for tips, and strike up conversations with fellow practitioners.
Start by asking for a rolling partner if you are new
Observe advanced students and compliment or ask for advice—it can open the door to friendly interactions
Bring a positive and respectful attitude, which naturally attracts like-minded peers
Many BJJ gyms host social events such as barbecues, movie nights, or group outings. Participating in these events is an excellent way to connect with members outside the training environment.
Attend gym-organized competitions or seminars
Volunteer for gym activities; this shows commitment and helps you bond with members
Invite fellow students to grab a post-class coffee or meal
Making friends in BJJ Madison is not just about attending classes; it is about how you interact during training.
Mutual respect is at the core of all martial arts. Treating your partners with care and professionalism makes you approachable and trustworthy.
Follow etiquette, such as hygiene, bowing, and safety during rolls
Be patient when rolling with less experienced practitioners
Celebrate your partner’s successes and progress
Instead of viewing training as purely competitive, approach it as an opportunity to learn together. Sharing tips, giving constructive feedback, and asking for guidance creates natural connections.
Partner drills allow for joint problem-solving
Ask questions about techniques or strategies
Offer help when a partner struggles; collaboration fosters camaraderie
Showing up consistently sends a message that you are committed and dependable. People naturally gravitate toward those they can rely on, both in training and socially.
Attend classes regularly
Engage actively in group discussions and post-class chats
Follow through on social invitations, such as joining gym outings or competitions
While martial arts provide a great platform for socializing, some challenges may arise, especially for newcomers.
It is common to feel nervous when training alongside more experienced students. Remember that everyone started as a beginner, and Pirate BJJ emphasizes a supportive culture.
Focus on your personal progress rather than comparisons
Use rolling sessions as learning opportunities, not competitions
Approach higher belts politely and ask for advice—they often enjoy mentoring beginners
Many adults struggle to balance work, family, and social activities. Consistency in training is key, but flexibility is essential.
Choose classes that fit your schedule and stick to them
Communicate with gym staff about your availability; some gyms offer make-up classes
Make small but meaningful efforts to connect, such as chatting briefly after class
Approaching new people can be challenging for introverts or those with social anxiety. Martial arts provide a structured environment that can help ease these concerns.
Partner drills create natural interaction points without forced small talk
Focus on shared goals instead of personal social performance
Start with one or two consistent training partners to build confidence gradually
Pirate BJJ stands out among BJJ Madison gyms for its welcoming environment and strong sense of community. Here are some reasons why it is perfect for building friendships:
Pirate BJJ’s instructors focus not only on technical skills but also on fostering a supportive culture. Mentorship programs pair newcomers with experienced students, encouraging learning and social bonds.
From beginner classes to advanced techniques, Pirate BJJ accommodates all levels, ensuring that everyone can participate comfortably.
Beginner fundamentals classes
Advanced technique and sparring sessions
Open mat and specialty workshops
Pirate BJJ actively encourages community involvement, from charity events to in-house competitions and casual gatherings.
Opportunities to connect beyond the mats
Celebrations of milestones like belt promotions
Gym culture emphasizes mutual respect and friendship
The gym maintains a culture of respect and inclusivity, making it easy for newcomers to feel comfortable and valued.
Policies against bullying or aggressive behavior
Open-door approach for questions and guidance
Welcoming members of all ages, genders, and fitness levels
Once you have started forming connections, it is important to nurture those friendships. BJJ and other martial arts provide unique ways to strengthen these bonds.
Consistency builds trust and camaraderie. Partnering with friends for drills or rolling sessions deepens your connection.
Schedule regular training sessions with your friends
Try different class types together to learn collaboratively
Celebrate each other’s milestones
Friendships extend beyond the mats. Attending social events, supporting competitions, or simply checking in can make relationships stronger.
Join local BJJ tournaments or seminars as a group
Celebrate birthdays or personal achievements
Share resources like technique videos or nutrition tips
A positive attitude fosters a healthy training environment. Encouraging words during training or after successful rolls make you a valued friend and partner.
Offer constructive feedback respectfully
Acknowledge effort, not just results
Celebrate the growth of others without jealousy
Living the values of BJJ—discipline, respect, humility, and perseverance—enhances friendships and builds deeper bonds.
Practice these values on and off the mats
Engage with the wider martial arts community in Madison
Share experiences and advice, creating a culture of mutual support
Making friends as an adult can feel daunting, but joining BJJ in Madison provides an organic, fun, and effective way to build lasting connections. By attending classes at Pirate BJJ, participating in drills, engaging in open mat sessions, and taking part in social events, you can form friendships rooted in trust, mutual growth, and shared experiences.
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