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  • Embracing the Essence of SBG’s Big 5 Rules

    Welcome to the Big 5 Rules of Straight Blast Gym! Today we’ll delve into the significance, essence, and practical implementation of our Big 5 Rules. These principles aren’t just words on a wall; they form the foundation of our gym culture. They uphold our philosophy of One Tribe, One Vibe. So let’s take a look at each rule and discover how these principles can not only enhance your training experience but also influence your overall approach to life.

    Rule 1: Prioritize Safety for Yourself and Others

    Let’s be honest. No one enjoys being the target of recklessness. We’re all here to progress, learn, and evolve as martial artists. This requires us to train smart, not rough. Gone are the days of basement brawls; we now understand that achieving excellence doesn’t necessitate getting injured. Consider your training partners as allies and comrades in your journey. Think about it this way; If you break all your toys, you’ll have nothing (and no one) to play with.

    Just as you would safeguard your training partner from harm in the gym you can adopt this mindset in life. As a practical example: Remember to lend a helping hand to your peers, provide support to your friends when they’re in need, and observe how reciprocity fosters a healthy atmosphere.

    Rule 2: Take Care of Your Training Environment

    Our gym is like a sanctuary, a place where growth and camaraderie thrive. Think of it as your home. Just as you wouldn’t leave your house in disarray, make sure to tidy up after training sessions, dispose of water bottles, and wipe down the equipment. Strive to leave the training room in better condition than you found it.

    Extend this principle beyond the gym – respect the environment that surrounds you. Just as you wouldn’t litter in your gym, make an effort not to litter in public spaces. Imagine if everyone embraced this mindset; our world would become cleaner and more respectful.

    Rule 3: Show Respect towards Your Coaches and Teammates

    Our gym is a melting pot where individuals are united by their love for martial arts & fitness. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from; here, we all belong to the Tribe. Be punctual for training sessions, communicate if there’s a need, tell your coach if you need to leave early, and put trust in your coaches; they are here to guide you. And just like your coaches have your back, you have the support of your teammates!

    As a practical example: apply this principle in your workplace. Show respect to your superiors and colleagues; be punctual; communicate effectively; and acknowledge that everyone brings their strengths to the table, just like in a gym.

    Rule 4: Support Your Tribe 

    While martial arts competitions may be individual endeavors, the journey itself is a collective effort. Your training partners are there to uplift you. We achieve success and growth together. Our community extends beyond the training mat. Attend events, cheer for your teammates, and remember how support fosters growth.

    In life, just think about your circle. Celebrate the achievements of your friends, be present during their milestones, and offer assistance when needed. Just as unity thrives in a gym environment, so does it within your network.

    Rule 5: Embrace Fun! 

    Martial arts are not just about discipline and dedication; they’re also about finding joy in the journey. Remember that progress takes time on the path towards earning a belt—or anything, really. Embrace every moment and treasure every memory. From those training mishaps to victories in tournaments, these are the moments that make your journey truly special.

    You can apply this rule to your hobbies and passions as well. Enjoy the process along the way. Whether you’re gardening, painting, or cooking, release your stress and fully engage in the joy of creating.

    In summary, these Big 5 Rules are not just recommendations; they truly embody the essence of Straight Blast Gyms ethos. But remember: “How you do anything, is how you do everything.” Apply them not just to your training but also incorporate them into your daily life beyond the gym. Let them steer your interactions, choices, and perspective. By living out these principles, you will not only become a better martial artist but also a better human being. As you embark on this journey, remember that we are all in this together.

    Sean Coleman

    is one of the longest tenured coaches at SBG Atlanta. He has been training / coaching / competing in Jiu Jitsu, MMA, and other programs since 2011 and holds a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.