Why Do You Slap The Mat In Jiu Jitsu?

Whether you’ve been watching martial arts or are just getting started in your training as an athlete, you may have noticed that in Jiu Jitsu and Judo, martial artists slap the mat just before they fall. What’s the explanation behind this behavior, and why do you slap the mat in Jiu Jitsu and Judo?

Why Do You Slap the Mat in Jiu Jitsu and Judo?

Slapping or smacking the mat is a technique called a breakfall. The reasoning behind this practice is that by using your arms to slap the mat, you can break a fall and reduce the impact that your body must absorb.

The goal is for martial artists to slap the ground an instant before their body makes contact with the mat. Essentially, martial artists make a quick slap of their hands against the mats.

So why slap the mat in Judo and Jiu Jitsu? There are several potential benefits.

1. Reduce Impact

Slapping the mat helps absorb some shock and impact, so the rest of the body isn’t subjected to that shock. When athletes slap the mat, they also tighten their core muscles, which helps to protect their bodies and internal organs from impact and potential injury.

2. Protect the Head

Slapping the mat also helps to keep a martial artist's head from hitting the ground on impact. As martial artists slap the mat, they also tuck in their chins to help keep their heads from hitting the ground, which could cause a concussion.

3. Prevent Fractures

Learning proper technique during a breakfall can help prevent potential fractures. Martial artists must tighten their core muscles and prevent joint hyperextension, and slapping the mat helps prevent an arm from getting trapped underneath the body awkwardly. Plus, practicing breakfalls correctly can help develop muscle and joint strength, which can help prevent injury.

Additional Ways to Maximize Safety

In addition to practicing proper breakfalls, martial artists can benefit from quality flooring surfaces designed for their safety. At Greatmats, we carry an excellent selection of martial arts flooring that helps to absorb shock during takedowns. Additionally, these products have surfaces designed to support athletes’ needs, whether that’s providing a durable surface or preventing skin burns.


Contact us today to learn more about our martial arts flooring. Our knowledgeable customer service team is also happy to help you choose the product that’s best for your needs.