The Complete Open Mat Guide — 7 Tips So Your First Time Isn't Awkward
Open mats are where you roll freely with people from other gyms. Etiquette, how to introduce yourself, rolling without getting hurt, and how to get the most out of it — a practical guide for first-timers.
An open mat is time to roll freely with no set class. Sometimes it's just people from the same gym, and there are also plenty of joint open mats where several gyms get together. At first you may wonder, "Can anyone just show up?" — but once you know a few things, there's nothing better for improving your game.
Why open mats are great
- Different partners: Roll with the same people all the time and your patterns set in stone. You need new body types and styles to find the holes in your game.
- Low-pressure experimenting: Unlike class or competition, it's a place where you can fail with new techniques as much as you like.
- Your network: You make friends from other gyms, and you'll see more familiar faces at tournaments.
Seven tips so your first time isn't awkward
- Say hello first: When you arrive, briefly greet the host gym's head instructor or coaches. "I'm here for the open mat" is all you need.
- Keep roll requests casual: Ask anyone you'd like to roll with, "Want to go a round?" If they say no, don't take it personally (they may be tired or managing an injury).
- Match your partner's level: With someone you've just met, don't go 100%; read the flow and adjust your intensity. Be extra careful if your partner is a white belt, a woman, or a youth athlete.
- Tap early and clearly: If you're caught, tap without hesitating. Your shoulders and knees are worth more than your pride.
- Go slow with dangerous techniques: Heel hooks, neck cranks and the like only after your partner agrees and you've checked their level. With people you don't know, holding back is good etiquette.
- Hygiene: A clean gi or rash guard, trimmed nails, deodorant. Basic courtesy on the mat.
- Say thanks at the end: Thank the people you rolled with and the host gym. That's how you become someone they want to invite back.
At open mats you roll with many people you've never met, so you need to be especially careful about matching intensity. Let go of the "I can't lose" mindset and think of it as coming to learn — it's much safer, and you'll improve a lot more.
Find open mats near you
On ROLLER you can check open mat schedules by region and join in. You can also list your own gym's open mat to invite other jiujiteiros.