IBJJF Ruleset​
Our academy follows the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) ruleset, which is introduced in the fundamentals class. This ruleset allows/disallows certain techniques depending on the practitioner's age and belt rank. For example, wristlocks are not allowed for white belts but are allowed for blue belts. Also, blue and purple belts are not permitted to use kneebars, but brown and black belts are. In sparring sessions, practitioners may only use techniques that are allowed at their opponent's belt level. Thus, while a blue belt is not permitted to use a wristlock on a white belt, a white belt is allowed to use wristlocks on a blue belt. However, if there is a prior agreement between practitioners, such as two blue belts consenting to use kneebars, then that is acceptable.
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Prohibited Techniques
In addition to the IBJJF rules, we adhere to specific "House Rules." While these rules and techniques are permissible in official BJJ tournaments, they are not allowed in our practice space. We may demonstrate and discuss these techniques during instruction, but we refrain from using them in live sparring sessions to ensure safety.
In Judo, this move is called Tani Otoshi ("Valley Drop"). We want to avoid any technique which drags the person backward and could inadvertently injure a person's knee.
Often called a "Cutback" in wrestling, this move falls into the same category as the Tani Otoshi. We don't like takedowns or moves that drag or twist the person backwards from standing.
Though 'jumping guard" is allowed at blue belt in IBJJF competition, they are never allowed at Testudo, regardless of belt rank. Takedowns, throws, and guard pulling is fine, but never jumping to a guard.
When attacking from the turtle position, the person on top should avoid pulling their opponent backwards, as this can frequently result in injuries to the ankles of the person on the bottom.