First Time BJJ Competition Guide at Checkmat Charlotte
Competing in Jiu Jitsu is a challenging but highly rewarding experience. Read below to find a few tips and guidelines for how to prepare and conduct yourself on the big day! Most of all, remember to breathe and have fun!
Prep
- Make sure you are on weight and hydrated if possible
Newbreed, Grappling industries, TCO and NAGA allow a grace pound and you weigh in without the gi
IBJJF does not allow a grace pound and you weigh in the gi
All federations DQ if you miss weight (except TCO)
Plan ahead. If you think you may miss weight, you have options. Change your division or ask for help to cut weight safely
Make sure your gi fits properly and is not ripped or frayed (for IBJJF review uniform rules)
Pack everything the night before:
Gi and extra gi
Belt
No gi set
ID
Mouthguard
Warmup clothes (sweatpants, sweatshirt etc)
Checkmat shirt if you have one
Headphones
Phone charger
Plenty of water and easily digestible snacks (apple sauce, crackers, protein bars)
Personal hygiene items (ie. hairties, deodorant, hand sanitizer)
Change of clothes
Day Of
Eat breakfast if weight allows
Make sure basic hygiene considerations are taken care of before arriving
Nails are trimmed short
Open cuts are covered
Piercings are removed
No makeup or anything that could get on your opponent’s gi
Arrive at least 90 minutes before your first match
Match times change, refresh your bracket often
Make sure you are warmed up before getting on the mat. As a bare minimum, jumping jacks and squats, stretching
Do not get on the mats to compete without a coach. Find Michael. If you can’t find Michael, find an upper belt.
Listen to your coach
Do not worry about the clock or how much time is left in the match
Do not willingly concede top position
You are representing Checkmat Charlotte. Conduct yourself with etiquette and respect
Wait for the ref to invite you on the mat
Bow on and off the mat
Wear shoes when off the mat
Shake hands with your opponent and their coach after the match
Do not talk back to refs
Do not talk trash to your opponent
Most importantly, have fun and try your hardest!
