Grapple Smart

If you’re an experienced grappler or Jiu-Jitsu player then you know about these invisible nuisances on the mat.  Bacteria is constantly lurking on your skin and on the mat just waiting for the right time to attack.  In order to keep yourself safe you must be aware of the dangers these pests present and how to deal with them.

Check out this great site for an informative look at Preventing Skin Infections!

From Ring Worm to Impetigo to Herpes Gladiatorum there are many forms of infection you can get while rolling.  Some things like Staphylococcus (AKA Staph) infections can actually be life threatening.  There is one form Staph (MRSA) that is resistant to most antibiotics and can be potentially deadly.  If you see a pimple surrounded by a read area that is hot you should see the doctor immediately.

Post from Twitter:

#BJJ #BrazilianJiuJitsu #Grappling QUESTION: What methods do you use to keep mat bugs away?  This a serious topic!!!

My Methods:

1. Wash Gi right after practice each and every time to avoid growing unwanted bacteria.

2. Use Ken Shield before each practice (esp Nogi) It’s creates a anti bacterial barrier on your skin.  My doctor also recommended Hibiclens (sold over the counter) to use once a week  to keep the skin clean!

3. Use Defense wipes or anti microbial wipes directly after each and every practice to kill or remove any unwanted Staph germs that may enter through small breaks in skin common in Jiu Jitsu.

4. Don’t roll with anyone who clearly has (or admits to having) ringworm or other infection.  Kindly encourage them to sit out until it is treated and healed.

Gym:

1. sweep and mop before class (use a good mat cleaning solution and hot water).

2. Clean blood immediately with appropriate cleanser.

3. Make sure students understand that good hygiene mat is EVERYONE’S responsibility!

Question: “Hi, I’ve been getting an accumulation of small injuries from sore joints, to minor muscle strains.  It’s getting more difficult to train on a regular basis because these little injuries are beginning to add up.  I know I should stretch before practice but a lot of times I get to practice with just enough time to throw on my gi and go.  Please help.”

Grapple Smart Answer:

I’ve had the same problem in the past.  Making time to stretch out before class will definitely help to prepare your muscles and joints for the strain they will go through.  Stretching after working out can also help to minimize injuries.

One of the best decisions I ever made was to incorporate yoga into my training regimen.  I’ll have to admit I felt a little bit awkward going into my first yoga class but it was well worth it.  With increased flexibility and core strength I basically stopped getting injured.

I know yoga was the answer for me because the times that I stopped attending yoga for whatever reason resulted in injuries cropping up again.   Although there are many great DVD’s on Yoga out there, I needed an instructor and a set time to stay consistent.   Although any amount of yoga will help, regular attendance will truly yield the best results.

Take steps to ensure your grappling future.  Check out “10 things I wish I knew before I started Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu” E-Book and Audio.