I started Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2007 in Los Angeles with my good friend Professor Ricardo “Rey” Diogo.  We went to the same gym and lifted weights during the lunch hour. One day we started chatting and he invited me to his BJJ academy for a “workout”. After my 1st class I was hooked, signed up immediately, and quit my other gym. That said, if anyone knows Rey, he teaches you the mat rules on day one. Bow before stepping onto the mats – it’s a show of respect to the tatme and you are checking your mind into practice, think of it as a handshake If Professor is on the mats teaching, wait for Professor to wave you onto the tatame – its respectful but also lets Professor know who is in class If you are late to class, after bowing to Professor you pay 20 push ups – life has consequences Begin class lined up according to rank and bow to Professor – this provides a clear and unambiguous ranking system and you are face to face with your instructor, ready to begin class. Professor can make announcements during this time, can address issues, make sure everyone’s uniform […]