In grappling the matter of making sure you’re training in a cleanly, hygienic atmosphere should be a priority.
Due to constant skin-to-skin contact, infections of the skin are a common and unfortunate part of Jiu-Jitsu. The prevalence of such conditions has changed the way many people look at the sport, and there have been many misconceptions about something that arguably is one of the greatest health concerns among athletes in the 21st century.
The issue is with the lack of education about skin infections, especially in preventing and treating them. The truth is that most types of skin infections in Jiu-Jitsu are extremely minor and only become a major health issue if they are not cared for properly.
However one excellent example we can all follow is Judo Legend Kosei Inoue. Inoue is widely considered one of the greatest judoka in history. He was also very vigorous about mat cleaning – which he didn’t relegate.
When it came to cleaning the mats he didn’t shy away from the duty. According to his philosophy when we clean the mats together, we show humility and mutual respect. To think one is above or exempt from the task is wrong.
This philosophy believes it’s wrong to relegate this to junior belts or children as well.
This is the one activity where juniors and seniors should work together in spirit of equality and mutual welfare.
This is all rooted in a belief that one learns not by being told something but by their own action. Rolling up the sleeves and doing the hard work shouldn’t be avoided it’s a moral obligation almost for others to join in Inoue’s gym.
In judo mat cleaning is a function of judo hierarchy much too often. The juniors should indeed rush to clean the mats for the respect of seniors all the while seniors should rush to demonstrate leadership and humility.
Poster outside All Japan Judo Federation Office in Tokyo
Tetsuma Nagasaki confirmed this practice telling that in Japan, this practice is common, and that both children and adults sweep the mats before and after practice (before is more common). He also noted that cleaning the mat is a very precious time for him, especially before judo practice, as he uses the time to calm his mind while sweeping in silence.
Inoue is the same coach that has credited cross training bjj to Japan’s comback in judo:
Japanese Coach Credits Crosstraining BJJ For Their Olympic Comeback
The most common types of skin infections include: Ring worm, Herpes simplex, Impetigo, and Staph/MRSA. This guide will give you some general knowledge on these infections, and at the very least, will also help you understand and identify their signs and symptoms.
You can read more about Inoue and his lead by example philosophy here.
And this can all be prevented if we have a little humility and take care of each other!
