Jiu-Jitsu is a dynamic martial art that involves close contact and ground techniques, often leading to common injuries like mat burn.
Mat burns are friction injuries that occur when skin rubs against the rough surface of a grappling mat during jiu-jitsu training due to the fast and quick movements.
Here are seven essential tips to prevent mat burn in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Practitioners should follow these tips to continue training safely and comfortably.
Aside from that, here are some immediate steps to treat mat burn:
- Clean the Burn – After getting a mat burn, clean the area with lukewarm water and mild soap. This step removes dirt and prevents infection.
- Cool the Burn – Apply a cool, wet cloth to the burn for a few minutes to soothe the pain and reduce swelling.
- Protect the Burn – Cover the area with a sterile bandage or gauze. If the burn is painful, applying a thin layer of antibiotic ointment before bandaging can help prevent infection and keep the wound moist for better healing.
Takeaway
Preventing mat burns in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is essential for comfort and maintaining the momentum and effectiveness of your training.
Adhering to these seven tips can drastically reduce the occurrence of these painful injuries:
- Wear Protective Gear: Utilize rash guards and Jiu Jitsu Gis to create a barrier between your skin and the mat, minimizing friction.
- Proper Training Techniques: Focus on techniques that limit direct skin contact with the mat and practice controlled movements to reduce the risk of burns.
- Improve Mat Hygiene: Regularly clean your training mats and maintain good personal hygiene to prevent infections and skin damage.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your sessions to keep your body and skin well-hydrated.
- Invest in High-Quality Mats: Opt for mats explicitly designed for grappling; those with smoother surfaces can decrease friction and the potential for burns.
- Adapt Training Frequency and Duration: Monitor and adjust your training intensity and intervals to give your skin ample time to recover between sessions.
- Use Moisturizers: Applying quality moisturizers can enhance your skin’s elasticity and provide a protective barrier, reducing the likelihood of mat burns.
Additionally, understanding how to treat mat burns when they occur—by cleaning, cooling, and protecting the burn—ensures that you can manage these injuries effectively when they arise.
