Martial arts mat etiquette for new students
Martial arts mat etiquette keeps every class safe, clean and respectful. Read these simple rules before your first class at Manifest MMA in La Habra, CA and you will walk in knowing exactly what to do.
Safe
Clean
Respectful
free
Why martial arts mat etiquette matters
Mat etiquette is the foundation of a safe, respectful and professional training environment. It keeps the gym clean, protects training partners and shows respect to coaches and teammates. Good mat conduct lets everyone focus on learning, build confidence and support each other, which strengthens the wider martial arts community.
If you are new, these rules may feel like a lot at first. They are not. Most are common sense and good manners, and they become second nature after a few classes. Every member started as a beginner, and nobody expects you to know everything on day one. We would rather you ask a question than guess. Your coach and your training partners will gently show you the way.
The same standards apply to kids and adults, in Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai and boxing. Parents can use this page to prepare children, and adults can use it as a checklist before their first visit. If something here is unclear, ask any coach and they will happily explain it.
Essential training rules
Six rules for every class
- 01
No shoes on the mat
Remove your shoes before stepping on the mat to keep it clean and hygienic. Wear sandals or shoes to the edge and leave them there.
- 02
Maintain good hygiene
Arrive clean, keep nails trimmed, wear fresh training gear and cover any wounds. Hygiene protects everyone you train with.
- 03
Respect your training partners
Treat coaches and teammates respectfully and train safely at all times. Consider your partner's size, age and skill, and give a hand slap or fist bump before rolling.
- 04
Wear proper training gear
Wear the correct gi, rash guard or training attire for your class. Remove all jewelry, and wear shorts without hard zippers or pockets.
- 05
Listen to the instructor
Stay attentive and focused while techniques are explained, keep talking to a minimum and follow the technique the coach teaches without going off script.
- 06
Respect the tap
Release immediately when a partner taps out. Be humble in victory, and tap early yourself when you need to. There is zero tolerance for violence on our mats.
Before class
A first-class checklist
What to bring
- Water bottle and a small towel
- Clean training clothes: t-shirt or rash guard and athletic shorts
- Sandals or slides for walking to the mat
- A positive attitude and a willingness to learn
What to leave at home
- Jewelry, watches and anything that could scratch a partner
- Shoes on the mat
- Strong perfume or cologne
- Worries about being the newest person in the room
Hygiene basics
Shower before class, trim fingernails and toenails, wash your gear after each class and cover any open cuts. Clean training makes for a healthy gym.
Arrive early
Arrive about 15 minutes before your first class so a coach can greet you, show you around and answer questions.
For parents
Teaching kids martial arts etiquette
Etiquette is one of the biggest gifts martial arts gives children. Bowing in, listening to the coach, taking turns and respecting a partner who taps are habits that transfer to school, sports and friendships.
You can help at home. Talk through the rules before the first class, pack a water bottle and clean clothes, and practice taking shoes off at the door. Remind your child that it is fine to ask questions and fine to tap when something feels uncomfortable.
Our kids coaches teach these habits gently and consistently. Read more about our kids martial arts classes or the youth Jiu Jitsu program. For a general overview, the American Academy of Pediatrics has a parent guide to martial arts.
Quick reference
Dos and do nots on the mat
| Do | Do not |
|---|---|
| Bow, fist bump or hand slap before rolling | Skip the greeting with your partner |
| Tap early and release at once when a partner taps | Hold a submission after a tap |
| Keep your nails short and your gear clean | Train with open wounds or dirty gear |
| Listen while the coach demonstrates | Talk over the instructor or go off script |
| Match your intensity to your partner's size and skill | Use force to prove a point |
| Be gracious in victory and in defeat | Boast about a win or sulk after a loss |
Member reviews
What members say about our culture
The mats are cleaned everyday, everybody is very respectful when borrowing equipment and wiping it down.
A welcoming, respectful, inclusive environment, no egos, just chill vibes.
Amazing coaches and good environment overall.
FAQ
Martial arts mat etiquette: common questions
A few quick answers for new students and parents.
What is mat etiquette in martial arts?
Mat etiquette is the set of rules and manners that keep training safe, clean and respectful. It covers hygiene, footwear, gear, respect for partners and coaches and how to behave on the mat.
Do I wear shoes on the mat?
No. Shoes stay off the mat at all times to keep it clean and hygienic.
What should I wear to my first Jiu Jitsu or Muay Thai class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothes such as a t-shirt or rash guard and shorts. Remove jewelry. Your coach will help you with a gi or gear later if your class needs it.
What does it mean to respect the tap?
Tapping signals that a partner wants to stop. You release the hold at once, every time. It keeps training safe and builds trust.
Is it okay to talk during class?
Keep talking to a minimum while the coach is teaching. Questions are welcome at the right moment, and conversation with partners is fine between drills.
Are the rules the same for kids?
Yes, with age-appropriate coaching. Children learn to bow in, listen, take turns and respect their partners from the first class.
Book a class online
Pick a class and reserve your spot in a minute. New students can use the free trial week. Prefer to talk first? Call (562) 554-6585.
Schedule not showing? Call (562) 554-6585 or see the full class schedule.
Free trial week
Ready to step on the mat? Your first week is free
Your first week is free, with no experience, no gear and no pressure. Reach out and a coach will help you pick the class that fits you or your family.
- No experience needed
- No gear needed
- Arrive 15 minutes early
- Beginners welcome
- Call(562) 554-6585
- Emailinfo@manifestmma.com
- Visit1403 E Lambert Rd, Suite O, La Habra, CA 90631