Grappling is an intense, close-contact sport that demands not only physical skill but also a strong sense of responsibility toward your training partners and yourself. One of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of training is maintaining good hygiene. Poor hygiene can lead to skin infections, unpleasant training experiences, and even long-term health issues. In this blog post, we’ll explore why hygiene matters, how to keep your gear clean, the risks of skin conditions, the right clothing for protection, and the etiquette of being a clean training partner.
Why Hygiene Matters in Grappling
Grappling sports like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), judo, and wrestling involve constant skin-to-skin contact and shared training spaces. This makes hygiene a top priority. Poor hygiene can lead to the spread of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, which thrive in warm, sweaty environments. Skin conditions like ringworm, staph infections, and impetigo are common in grappling sports and can sideline you for weeks, sometimes months. By prioritising cleanliness, you protect your health, your training partners, and the integrity of your gym.
Keeping Your Training Gear Clean
Your gi, no-gi attire, and other training gear are breeding grounds for bacteria if not properly cleaned. Here’s how to keep your gear fresh and safe:
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Wash Immediately After Training: Don’t let your sweaty gear sit in your gym bag. Wash it as soon as possible to prevent bacteria from multiplying.
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Use Antibacterial Detergent: Opt for a detergent that kills bacteria and fungi. Adding a cap of a product like Gear Guard to the wash can also help eliminate odours and disinfect your gear.
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Dry Thoroughly: Make sure your gear is completely dry before storing it. Damp gear is a perfect environment for mould and bacteria.
For more tips on maintaining your gear, check out our Gear Care Guide.
Skin Conditions and Their Impact
Skin infections are a serious concern in grappling sports. Here are some common conditions to watch out for:
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Ringworm: A fungal infection that causes itchy, circular rashes. It’s highly contagious and can spread quickly through shared mats and gear.
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Staph Infections: Caused by bacteria, staph infections can range from minor skin irritations to life-threatening conditions like MRSA.
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Impetigo: A bacterial infection that causes red sores and blisters, often around the face and hands.
To minimise the risk of these conditions, shower thoroughly as soon as possible after training, avoid sharing gear, and inspect your skin regularly for any unusual rashes or sores.
The Right Clothing for Maximum Protection
Wearing the right clothing is essential for both performance and hygiene. Here’s what to consider:
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Choose Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: These materials draw sweat away from your skin, reducing the risk of bacterial growth.
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Wear Spats &/or Gi Pants and Long Sleeved Rash Guards: Covering as much of your skin as possible provides a protective layer between your skin and your training partner, minimising direct contact and reducing the risk of infections.
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Opt for Fitted Gear: Loose clothing can harbour bacteria and make it easier for pathogens to transfer between partners.
For high-quality rash guards and other training apparel, visit our Shop.
The Etiquette of Being a Clean Training Partner
Good hygiene isn’t just about protecting yourself—it’s about respecting your training partners and the gym community. Here are some etiquette tips to follow:
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Trim Your Nails: Long nails can scratch your partner and create openings for infections.
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Shower Before Training: If possible starting your session clean reduces the amount of bacteria you bring onto the mats.
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Wear Clean Gear: Always show up in freshly washed attire. No one wants to train with someone who smells like last week’s sweat.
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Cover Open Wounds: If you have cuts or scrapes, cover them with waterproof bandages to prevent infections. Do NOT train with any of the skin conditions mentioned above, if in doubt err on the side of caution until you are cleared by a medical professional.
- Clean the Mats: The mats you train on should be cleaned thoroughly with an anti bacterial disinfectant after every session. Whether you are at a club or training in a home gym they should always be swept and mopped as soon as possible after training has finished.
By following these practices, you contribute to a safer and more enjoyable training environment for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Good hygiene is a non-negotiable part of grappling. It protects your health, respects your training partners, and ensures you can continue training without interruptions. By keeping your gear clean, wearing the right clothing, and practicing proper etiquette, you set a standard of excellence both on and off the mats.
At Continuous Flow BJJ, we’re committed to helping you stay safe and healthy while pursuing your grappling goals. For more tips on training, gear, and BJJ lifestyle, explore our Blog or join our community today!
Remember, cleanliness is next to greatness—especially in grappling. Stay clean, stay healthy, and keep rolling!