1. Policy Statement

Martial arts training involves physical activity and carries an inherent risk of injury. Cobra Jujitsu takes reasonable, practical steps to reduce that risk as far as possible, and to respond quickly and correctly if something does go wrong. This policy should be read alongside the disclaimer shown on our Study at Home pages, which covers training outside of official sessions.

2. Before Training

  • All new members complete a health questionnaire and provide emergency contact details before their first full session
  • Parents/guardians must tell us about any medical condition, injury, allergy or additional need that could affect training
  • Instructors check the training area (mats, matting edges, lighting, obstructions) before each session
  • Students should arrive hydrated, in appropriate kit, with long hair tied back and nails kept short
  • Anyone training with an existing injury should tell the instructor before the session starts

3. During Training

  • Warm-ups are used to prepare the body before higher-intensity drills
  • Techniques are taught progressively, appropriate to the age, size and experience of the group
  • Contact drills and sparring are supervised at all times by an insured instructor
  • Groin guards are required for senior students in contact drills
  • Students must stop and tell an instructor immediately if they feel unwell, dizzy, or are injured
  • Instructors will stop or adapt an activity if it becomes unsafe for any reason, including overcrowding of the mat area

4. First Aid & Emergency Procedures

  • At least one instructor holding a recognised first aid qualification is present at every session
  • A first aid kit is kept at the venue and checked periodically for missing or out-of-date items
  • Any injury during a session is treated immediately, recorded, and the parent/guardian informed as soon as practical
  • For a serious injury, emergency services will be called without delay, and the emergency contact on file will be contacted
  • All incidents are recorded, including what happened, what was done, and any follow-up needed
  • Serious incidents are reported to BMABA in line with their reporting requirements

Head injuries and suspected concussion are treated with particular care - see our Concussion & Return to Training Policy.

5. Equipment & Venue

  • Training mats are inspected regularly for damage or wear
  • Any personal equipment (grappling dummies, weapons used in the syllabus) must be appropriate and used only as instructed
  • Fire exits at the venue are kept clear, and instructors know the venue's fire evacuation procedure
  • Any equipment or venue fault is reported to the venue and, where relevant, training is adjusted until resolved

6. Training at Home (Study at Home Materials)

Our online syllabus videos are for educational reference only, to remind students of techniques already learnt in class. The club accepts no liability for injuries occurring during solo or home practice. Students should only practise techniques they've already been shown by an instructor, use appropriate equipment such as a grappling dummy rather than another person, and stay within their personal limits.

7. Review of Policy

This policy is reviewed annually, after any reportable incident, or when BMABA guidance changes.