1. The academy is Sacred
Treat the academy as a place of learning and discipline.
Bow when entering and leaving the the mat.
No shoes on the mats.
Keep the academy clean and orderly. Everyone is responsible for maintaining the space.
2. Respect Above All
Show respect to instructors, higher belts, training partners, and visitors.
Always address instructors and black belts with appropriate titles “coach”
Never interrupt or talk over instructors during class or instruction.
3. Observe Proper Etiquette
Sit in seiza (formal kneeling) or an attentive kneeling/sitting posture when watching or waiting.
Do not lean against walls, lie on the mat, or act casually during instruction.
Always remain quiet and focused unless instructed otherwise.
When tying your belt or fixing your uniform, turn away from the center of the mat and politely and unassumingly make your self presentable.
4. Punctuality and Discipline
Arrive on time. If late, wait at the edge of the mat until acknowledged by the instructor before entering.
If you must leave early, inform the instructor before class begins.
No unnecessary talking, laughing, or distraction during training.
5. Cleanliness and Personal Hygiene
Always come to class clean with a freshly laundered uniform (gi/no-gi gear).
Keep fingernails and toenails short and clean.
Use deodorant, but avoid strong perfumes or colognes.
Do not train if you have skin infections or open wounds. Respect the health of others.
No one is to be barefoot anywhere except the marts. Shoes or sandals must be worn while off the mats or in the bathroom.
6. Uniform and Appearance
Wear the correct uniform: gi or no-gi attire as instructed.
Gi should be traditional and unmodified. Only White, Blue and Black Gi’s are allowed during formal instruction for adults. Kids may wear non traditional colors so long as they are tasteful and solid colored.
Belts must be properly tied and respected—never dragged, thrown, or disrespected.
Remove all jewelry and piercings before stepping on the mat.
7. Train with Control and Awareness
Always prioritize safety—yours and your partner’s.
Practice techniques with focus, not ego.
Never use excessive force, especially with lower ranks.
If unsure about a technique, ask before trying.
8. Tap Early, Tap Often
If caught in a submission, tap out—verbally or physically.
If your partner taps, immediately release the hold—no exceptions.
Respect your partner’s limits and do not apply pressure recklessly.
9. Ranking and Lineage
Senior belts line up to the right of the instructor, juniors to the left.
Obey the traditional line-up and bow-in procedure.
When a higher ranking student is training or sparing and begins to move int your space, politely make room.
Never question promotions or rankings—trust in the process.
10. No Coaching from the Sidelines
Do not instruct others unless explicitly allowed.
Respect the instructor’s role. Peer coaching is only permitted during open mat or when invited.
Parents/spectators must remain quiet and respectful during class.
11. SPARRING / RANDORI ETIQUETTE
Do not celebrate victories—remain humble at all times.
Know your own limitations and the abilities and limitations of your training partners, work with them and not against them.
Control emotions—no yelling, anger, or frustration.
Do not choose opponents based on perceived ease or strength. Train with everyone.
Respect the tap. Never continue after a tap or after a pause is called.
12. Leave the Ego at the Door
You are here to learn, not to dominate.
Every student, regardless of skill or background, has value.
True strength lies in humility, consistency, and respect.
13. Be a good representative
Social media conduct reflects on the school—represent yourself with honor.
Remember you’re part of culture an community that extends beyond the mats and your conduct is reflection of Legion MMA and your training partners.