At MRG, etiquette plays a big role in maintaining respect, safety, and a positive environment for all practitioners. Here are some basic rules to follow:

1. Respect the Mat
• Cleanliness: Always ensure your body and gi are clean before stepping on the mat. Hygiene is essential to prevent infections and to show respect for your training partners.
• No outdoor shoes on the mat: Do not wear outdoor shoes on the mat as it can bring dirt, bacteria, or other contaminants.
• Never step on the mat with dirty feet: If you're barefoot or in sandals, make sure your feet are clean before stepping onto the mat.

2. Address Instructors and Training Partners Properly
• Show respect to your instructor: When addressing them, use titles like “Professor” or “Coach,” depending on the school’s culture.
• Be polite to training partners: Always address each other with respect, even in the heat of competition or sparring.
• Acknowledge when you learn: A simple “Thank you” when you’re shown a technique or concept is a sign of respect.

3. Know When to Enter and Exit the Mat
• Bow before entering: In many schools, it’s customary to bow before entering or exiting the mat to show respect for the space and those in it.
• Wait for the instructor's permission: Don’t just jump in and start rolling or drilling without the instructor's signal, especially if class has already begun.
• Do not interrupt class: If you need to leave or enter the mat for any reason during class, wait for an appropriate moment to do so without disrupting others.

4. Control Your Aggression
• Don't go too hard on beginners: Whether you're rolling with a white belt or someone less experienced, always adjust your intensity. The goal is to help your partner improve, not to "win" in a sparring session.
• Tap early, tap often: If you’re caught in a submission, tap immediately to avoid injury. It's a sign of respect for your partner's control and for your own well-being.
• Don't "muscle" techniques: Martial Arts is about leverage, not strength. Avoid using excessive strength, as it can lead to injury for you or your partner.

5. Keep the Flow of Class Going
• Stay focused: Pay attention during demonstrations. If you’re not clear on a technique, ask questions after the instructor finishes.
• Respect the drilling process: When practicing a technique, work with your partner in a controlled manner. Don’t rush through the steps or skip important details.
• Don’t disrupt the class flow: If you’re in a class setting, follow the instructor’s instructions and maintain a positive attitude, whether you’re drilling or sparring.

6. Don’t Be Too Talkative During Rolling
• Concentrate on the roll: When sparring, focus on the exchange. Excessive talking can disrupt your partner’s concentration and your own.
• Conserve energy: Save your energy for the rolling session and keep conversations for after class.

7. Be Mindful of Submissions
• Be careful with submissions: Don't go for submissions too quickly or recklessly, especially with beginners or people you don't know well.
• Release submissions when your partner taps: Once your partner taps, let go of the submission immediately. Holding on after they tap is dangerous and disrespectful.

8. Respect Personal Space
• Don’t invade others’ space: If someone is busy on the mat, respect their space and wait for an opportunity to train with them.
• Don’t interrupt rolls: If someone is rolling, wait until they’re finished or until there’s a natural break before you ask to spar with them.

9. Be On Time
• Arrive early: Aim to be at class at least 10-15 minutes early. This gives you time to warm up and mentally prepare for class.
• Stay for the whole class: Arriving late or leaving early is disruptive and shows disrespect. If you must leave early, inform the instructor beforehand.

10. Be Supportive
• Encourage others: Celebrate the success of your training partners, whether they’re achieving a new belt or mastering a new technique. Martial Arts is about personal growth, not competition between classmates.
• Help others when needed: Offer advice or a hand to others, especially beginners. Teaching each other reinforces learning.

By following these basic etiquette rules, you’ll contribute to a positive and supportive environment that benefits everyone in our community.