If you’re considering practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), you have probably heard the term ‘Rash Guard’ tossed around. But what exactly is a rash guard, and why is it so important in BJJ? This blog post will cover all that and more, including what a rash guard is made of, its purposes, and its myriad benefits, especially in the context of BJJ.
What is a Rash Guard?
A rash guard is an athletic shirt designed to fit tightly to the body, and BJJ fighters commonly wear them because grappling arts require a lot of physical contact and movement. Initially developed for surfers to protect against rash caused by wax irritation and sun exposure, rash guards have found a significant place in BJJ and other martial arts due to their functional benefits. Rash guards differ from regular athletic wear in their design and functionality.
They often feature reinforced stitching to withstand the rigors of grappling and may include antimicrobial treatments to further reduce the risk of infections. Their popularity in BJJ isn’t just due to their practicality but also their ability to integrate seamlessly with the sport’s culture, often featuring bold designs and colors that reflect the vibrant nature of martial arts.
Materials Used in Rash Guards
The most common materials used in making rash guards are spandex, polyester, or a combination. Manufacturers choose these materials for their elasticity, durability, and ability to wick moisture away from the body. Spandex provides excellent stretchability, allowing a full range of motion, while polyester is known for its strength and quick-drying properties. The blend of these materials creates a garment that is not only comfortable but durable enough to withstand the rigors of grappling and intense training.
In addition to their functional properties, these materials are easily customized and adorned with different designs and colors. For that reason, rash guards are more than just a piece of sporting equipment; they’ve become a bit of a fashion statement in the BJJ community. Thanks to new technology, the rash guard fabrics are lighter and more breathable while renaming durable enough to maintain their shape and compression capabilities even after repeated use.
Purpose of Rash Guards
Rash guards serve multiple purposes in BJJ and other martial arts. Primarily, they protect the skin against friction burns, cuts, and infections and help regulate body temperature by wicking sweat away, so grapplers stay dry and comfortable. In grappling sports like BJJ, skin-to-skin contact is frequent and, as a result, fighters are exposed to bacteria and can develop staph infections and other skin diseases such as ringworm, The tight fit and moisture-wicking material of rash guards helps minimize the risk of diseases. However, it’s important that you always keep your rashguard clean to prevent the growth of bacteria and protect yourself and your opponents.
Beyond these practical aspects, rash guards also contribute to a sense of professionalism and uniformity within the sport. They allow athletes to adhere to certain standards of appearance and hygiene during training and competition, creating a more structured and disciplined environment. This aspect of uniformity is not only about aesthetics but also promotes a sense of equality and focus on skill rather than appearance among practitioners.
Importance of Wearing Rash Guards in BJJ
In BJJ, wearing a rash guard is not just about comfort but safety and hygiene. The close-contact nature of BJJ increases the risk of skin infections. Rash guards provide a protective layer between you and your training partners, reducing direct skin contact and the likelihood of transmitting or contracting skin infections. Furthermore, many BJJ academies have made wearing rash guards a part of their uniform policy, underlining their importance in this martial art.
This emphasis on rash guards goes beyond the practical and enters the realm of respecting the art form. By adhering to this dress code, practitioners demonstrate a commitment to the discipline and respect for their fellow athletes. It’s a sign of taking the sport seriously and understanding the importance of minimizing risks in a physically demanding activity. This commitment is reflected in regular training sessions and competitions, where rash guards become a part of the athlete’s identity and ethos.
Despite the utility of rash guards, some Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gyms and competition organizers differ on whether they should be allowed. Certain gyms and organizations go so far as to mandate students wear rash guards while practicing, while others don’t allow them at all.
Benefits of Using Rash Guards
Rash guards offer several benefits, especially in a grappling sport like BJJ:
- Skin Protection: Rash guards protect against abrasions, rashes, and minor cuts. This is particularly important in BJJ, where competitors’ skin is often exposed to rough mats and the clothing of opponents, leading to potential skin damage.
- Hygiene: By providing a barrier, rash guards reduce the risk of skin infections, which is crucial in a sport where athletes are in close contact and bacteria and fungi can easily spread.
- Comfort and Mobility: The stretchable fabric of rash guards allows free movement and flexibility so BJJ fighters can execute complex moves and techniques without feeling restricted.
- Muscle Support and Recovery: The compression provided by rash guards can help in muscle recovery and reduce fatigue by improving blood circulation. In a high-contact sport like BJJ, recovery after training is critical for better performance and preventing injury.
- Thermal Regulation: Rash guards help keep your body temperature balanced during training, preventing overheating or getting too cold. If your body is too cold while rolling, your muscles can get stiff and impact your performance and endurance (not to mention increase your risk of injury). On the flip side, overheating is dangerous during any physical activity, as you can get sick or pass out.
How Rash Guards Protect the Skin
Rash guards are specifically designed to protect the skin in a few key ways:
- Friction Reduction: The smooth surface of the rash guard material reduces friction against the mats and your opponent’s clothing, lowering the risk of skin abrasions. This is especially beneficial in BJJ, where athletes often slide or roll on the mat.
- Barrier Against Infections: The tight-fitting material acts as a barrier against bacteria and fungi, which are common in martial arts gyms. This barrier is key in preventing the spread of infections like ringworm and staph, which can be common in close-contact sports environments. The less exposed skin, the smaller the chance of contracting ringworm (or similar infection).
- Moisture Management: Rash guards wick sweat away from the body, keeping the skin dry and less susceptible to chafing. Training sessions can be long and arduous, causing excessive sweat and moisture buildup on your body. Rash guards keep you comfortable and your skin healthy by wicking away sweat.
Although not all grapplers prefer to wear a rash guard, many agree they are a crucial part of BJJ attire. The protection, comfort, and support they provide BJJ practitioners can be really helpful in a sport defined by its high contact. Beginners and seasoned practitioners recognize that investing in a good-quality rash guard can significantly enhance your training experience, safeguard your skin, and contribute to a more hygienic training environment for you and your fellow gym members.
