There are two types of BJJ practitioners: those who've had skin infections, and those who will. I recently graduated into the first group in spectacular fashion, scoring both ringworm and staph within 3 months.
Nothing makes you appreciate cleanliness quite like battling painful staph sores and itchy dart board patches. It was a humbling experience that taught me some valuable lessons about staying clean in a sport that's inherently... well, gross.
Want to avoid my mistakes?
Follow these BJJ hygiene tips:
1. Shower Like Your Health Depends On It (Because It Does)
Take a quick shower before training to avoid bringing outside bacteria to the mats. More importantly, shower within four hours after training using antimicrobial soap. Let the soap sit on your skin for at least 30 seconds before rinsing - those extra seconds could mean the difference between staying healthy and developing an infection.
2. Treat Your Gi Like a Biohazard Suit
Never, and I mean never, reuse an unwashed gi. Wash it immediately after training in hot water with detergent. Don't stuff it in your gym bag and forget about it - that's basically creating a petri dish of bacteria. Use a disposable plastic bag or washable mesh bag to transport your sweaty gi home.
3. Your Belt Isn't Immune to Bacteria
Despite some old-school myths about never washing your belt to "preserve the knowledge," your belt needs regular cleaning too. Those stripes won't wash away if you iron them on properly. Think about it - your belt touches every part of your gi and picks up just as much sweat and bacteria.
4. Become Obsessive About Small Cuts
What seems like a tiny scratch can become a gateway for nasty infections. Before hitting the mats, cover every cut, scrape, or open wound with antibacterial ointment and a secure bandage. Full-length rash guards provide an extra layer of protection against skin-to-skin transmission.
5. Keep Your Nails Short and Clean
Long nails aren't just impolite - they're dangerous. They can harbor bacteria and cause scratches that lead to infections. Make nail trimming part of your pre-training routine, both fingers and toes. Think of it as basic maintenance for your most important training tools - your hands and feet.
6. Your Gym Bag Matters
Don't throw your sweaty gear into any old gym bag. Use a well-ventilated bag and empty it completely after each session. Consider using antimicrobial bag inserts or tea tree oil sachets to combat odor and bacteria growth. Never leave damp gear in your bag overnight.
7. Be a Clean Training Partner
If you're sick or have any suspicious skin conditions, stay home. Being the tough guy who trains through everything isn't brave - it's inconsiderate and potentially dangerous for your training partners. When in doubt, sit it out.
8. Maintain Your Defense Against Fungi
Use antifungal powder or spray on your feet before and after training. This creates an inhospitable environment for fungal infections like athlete's foot and ringworm, which love warm, moist conditions.
9. Baby Wipes are Your Post-Training Best Friend
Keep a pack of baby wipes in your gym bag and wipe down immediately after training, especially in areas prone to infection like your face, neck, and any exposed skin. This quick cleanup can help remove bacteria and sweat before they have a chance to cause problems. Think of it as a pre-shower insurance policy.
10. Cover Up for Extra Protection
Long-sleeve rash guards and leggings create a barrier between your skin and the mats, minimizing direct contact with bacteria and fungi. While it might be a bit warmer to train in, that extra layer could be the difference between staying healthy and catching something nasty. Plus, they help prevent mat burns, which can become entry points for infections.
Remember, in BJJ, we're all in this together - literally. Your hygiene affects everyone you roll with, and vice versa. It took getting both ringworm and staph for me to take these practices seriously, but you don't have to learn the hard way. Stay clean, stay healthy, and keep rolling!
