SOME GENERAL

RULES & ETIQUETTE

FOR VISITING THE GYM

The Gorilla Grapplers employ a pretty laid back approach regarding rules and regulations - with mutual respect being at the forefront of our policy. Below are a few guidelines we do encourage to ensure training is fair and enjoyable for all.

  • Try your upmost to be on time for class (Arrive 10 minutes before class begins if possible)

  • If you are late to class, approach the instructor before joining the class.

  • Put mobile phones on silent and leave them in your bag

  • Strictly No Shoes on the Mats - Remove all footwear before stepping on the mats, and ALWAYS wear footwear off of the mat. Sliders / Flip-Flops encouraged

  • We do not operate a uniform policy, You can wear whatever colours or brands you like, however you are expected to keep all training gear clean, wash Gi’s, NoGi Attire, Gloves etc after EVERY use

  • If you are sick, stay home

  • Proper personal hygiene is required

  • Keep finger and toenails cut short at all times, hands and feet must be clean, body odor to a minimum

  • Open cuts must be covered at all times

  • Long hair must be tied back

  • Remove all jewellery and piercings before class. No metal objects are to be worn on the mats

  • Respect those you train with. Rank is a symbol of knowledge only, make sure to show each other respect regardless. Look after the training facility, respect and appreciate the gym, the instructors and your training partners.

THE GYM IS KEPT COMPLETELY FREE OF ANY POLITICS

ALL ARE WELCOME TO TRAIN AT GORILLAS REGARDLESS OF TEAM, RACE, CREED OR RELIGION

Skin Conditions / Infections - Things to be Aware Of

Combat Sports practice is close quarters and as such you will experience skin on skin contact - at some point during your time training you may be subject to skin conditions - here are a few to be aware of, the differences and some advice for dealing with them.

Even if you and your training partners adhere to all of the hygiene and good practice policies it is still possible to pick up bacterial and fungal infections. Unfortunately this comes with the territory with some individuals more susceptible to these conditions than others. The main conditions to be aware of are Ringworm, Impetigo and Staph (MRSA) Infections.

With any of the below, prevention in the first place is key.

Ensure all training kit is washed after every session, you shower immediately after training and try to utilize products like Grapplers Soap, products with Tee Tree Oil etc. which are specially formulated to assist with combat sports in mind.

If needed wash BEFORE training also - if your occupation is one that you get covered in dirt / grime ensure you shower prior to training as well as after.

Ensure any cuts/open wounds are cleaned thoroughly and covered at all times with tape, rash guard etc.

It is important that if you develop any symptoms of skin infections you report it immediately and refrain from training until it has passed. After your infection has cured, wash all your bedding and towels thoroughly to prevent re-infection.

  • Ringworm

    Ringworm can be spread via direct or indirect contacts. The most common method of transmission of ringworm is via skin-to-skin touch. Ringworm can also be transferred indirectly from contact with infected objects and surfaces, such as the mats themselves, kimonos or belts.

    Mild cases can be treated with anti-fungal creams (contact GP/Pharmasist) with more severe cases requiring Anti-Biotics to clear up.

  • Impetigo

    Impetigo is a bacterial infection that can affect almost every part of the body and is caused by either staphylococcus/strep or streptococcus.

    These bacteria’s can effect the body via a cut, insect bite, or open sore. A skin infection does not necessarily require a cut.

    Impetigo is usually characterized by small, reddish bumps that eventually break out into a yellowish-colored scab. This infection can spread from skin to skin contact or sharing training equipment.

    Mild cases can be treated with anti-bacterial creams like Fusilic Acid (contact GP/Pharmasist) with more severe cases requiring Anti-Biotics to clear up.

  • Staph (MRSA)

    MRSA or Staph is the least common amongst skin infections but something we still need to be aware of. It is High-resistant bacterial infection characterized by skin abscesses and drainage of pus or other fluids. It is common to feel warm around infected areas.

    In this instance we would advise you contact your GP immediately as this will require proper treatment.