Tapping in Jiu-Jitsu is the fundamental non-verbal communication method used by practitioners to signal submission, indicating that they need or desire to stop a technique or the match itself. It's an indispensable safety mechanism in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), preventing injury during training and competition.
The Purpose of Tapping
At its core, tapping serves as a quick, decisive signal to an opponent or training partner that they have successfully applied a submission hold, or that the person being submitted is experiencing discomfort or pain and wishes to cease the engagement. This simple action allows practitioners to train intensely and safely, pushing their limits without risking serious harm.
How to Tap Effectively
In Jiu-Jitsu, a "tap" is typically a quick, light blow, or the sound of such a blow, often made by hitting one's hand repeatedly on the mat, their opponent, or even themselves. It's crucial to make the tap clear and noticeable.
There are primarily two ways to tap:
- Physical Tap: This is the most common and universally understood method.
- On the opponent: Repeatedly patting their body (arm, leg, back) with an open hand.
- On the mat: Hitting the mat repeatedly with an open hand or foot.
- On oneself: Patting one's own body (e.g., chest, leg) if the arms are trapped.
- Verbal Tap: If a practitioner's hands are entangled or they are otherwise unable to physically tap, they can verbally announce their submission. Common verbal taps include:
- Saying "Tap!"
- Saying "Stop!"
- Saying "Pat!" (Less common, but sometimes used)
It is critical that the person applying the submission release the hold immediately upon feeling or hearing a tap.
Why Tapping is Crucial for Safety and Progress
Tapping is not a sign of weakness, but rather a demonstration of intelligence, self-preservation, and respect for the art and one's training partners.
- Injury Prevention: Jiu-Jitsu involves joint locks and chokes that can cause serious injury if not released promptly. Tapping prevents dislocations, broken bones, ligament tears, and loss of consciousness.
- Effective Learning: By tapping, practitioners can experience the full force of a submission without enduring injury, allowing them to understand the mechanics and escape strategies more deeply. It fosters an environment where students can try new techniques and push their boundaries safely.
- Respect and Trust: Tapping builds trust between training partners. Knowing that an opponent will release a submission upon a tap allows for harder, more realistic training.
When to Tap
Understanding when to tap is a key skill developed over time in Jiu-Jitsu. Here are common scenarios:
- Joint Locks: When a joint (like an elbow in an armbar or a knee in a kneebar) is extended beyond its natural range of motion and pain is felt.
- Chokes: When a chokehold is applied, and the practitioner begins to feel lightheaded, disoriented, or struggles to breathe. It's best to tap before losing consciousness.
- Uncomfortable Positions: Sometimes, a position may not be a direct submission but causes extreme discomfort or puts the practitioner at high risk of injury (e.g., certain leg entanglements, neck cranks). Tapping can prevent the situation from escalating.
- Early Recognition: Experienced practitioners often tap early, even before severe pain or danger, simply because they recognize the submission is fully locked in and escaping is highly improbable. This conserves energy and minimizes wear and tear on the body.
Physical vs. Verbal Tap
| Feature | Physical Tap | Verbal Tap |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Clearly seen by opponent and onlookers | Heard by opponent, sometimes by others |
| Reliability | Universal, less prone to misinterpretation | Can be muffled, harder to hear in noisy gyms |
| Usage | Primary method, always preferred | Used when physical tap is impossible |
| Speed | Immediate recognition and release | Can have slight delay if not clearly heard |
Tapping is a critical component of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu etiquette and safety protocols, ensuring the longevity and well-being of all participants in the martial art.
