Understanding Combat Gi and No Gi in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Techniques

Everything you need to know about the two clothing options within BJJ

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has evolved significantly since its origins, having been adapted from traditional Japanese Jiu Jitsu in Brazil. Initially, Brazilian practitioners exclusively trained in a gi or "kimono," creating a sense of confusion among local spectators accustomed to watching combat sports where fighters competed bare-chested.

As Brazilian Jiu Jitsu cemented its status as a leading martial art within mixed martial arts (MMA), the no gi variant, which entails practicing without the traditional kimono, gained substantial traction.

In Gi BJJ, both competitors don cotton kimonos, which provide them with grip points to control and submit one another. In contrast, No Gi BJJ attire typically consists of rash guards and board shorts, eliminating the possibility of utilizing clothing for gripping during matches.

Notably, recent changes in the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) rules now permit brown and black belt competitors to utilize advanced leg submissions such as heel hooks in no gi categories, expanding their arsenal of techniques.

The debate surrounding gi versus no gi continues to be a contentious topic within the BJJ community, with no definitive answer as to which is superior. Notably, experts such as John Danaher assert that elite jiu jitsu athletes should be adept in both gi and no gi formats. Danaher emphasizes that the essence of jiu jitsu lies in controlling the opponent rather than their clothing, suggesting that each form offers distinct advantages.

For certain individuals, particularly those training for MMA or intending to compete exclusively in no gi events, the no gi format may prove more relevant. Below, you will find a comprehensive guide on the topic.

Table of contents

• What's the difference between gi and no gi jiu jitsu?
• How does the change of clothing affect the style of jiu jitsu?
• Gi vs no gi BJJ competitions
• Is gi or no gi better for beginners?
• Is gi or no gi better for self-defence?
• Is gi or no gi better for MMA?
• Are there any gyms that only teach no gi jiu jitsu?
• Gi and no gi pros and cons

What's the difference between gi and no gi jiu jitsu?

The fundamental distinction between gi and no gi jiu jitsu lies in the attire worn during training and competition. Traditionally, practitioners of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu train wearing a heavy cotton gi, or "kimono," reminiscent of those utilized in traditional Japanese martial arts like judo since the 1920s. A gi comprises a durable jacket equipped with a thick collar, paired with drawstring pants and a coloured cotton belt denoting rank. There are numerous brands available, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium gis catering to competitive needs.

Conversely, no gi practitioners typically wear rash guards and board shorts, mirroring typical beach attire. This clothing is often composed of stretchy, elastic materials like polyester, allowing for flexibility during movement.

How does the change of clothing affect the style of jiu jitsu?

Training in a gi permits athletes to grab and manipulate both their own and their opponent's garment, utilizing features such as the collar, lapel, sleeves, and pant legs to enhance their techniques, albeit with specific regulations in place, especially during IBJJF competition. In no gi, these clothing handles are absent, compelling competitors to rely on body mechanics and techniques such as overhooks and balance rather than fabric grips.

John Danaher, a highly respected BJJ instructor, articulates that the gi nurtures defensive skills, while training without it promotes the development of offensive capabilities. He identifies three primary ways the absence of a gi alters the dynamics of BJJ:

Reduced friction in no gi. The gi introduces significant friction, particularly when dampened with sweat. This characteristic slows matches, necessitating a tactical approach that prioritizes calculated maneuvers over raw physical speed. Consequently, practitioners must assess obstacles methodically, making matches less akin to frantic scrambles where strength and speed can compensate for technical inadequacies.Fewer grips in no gi. The absence of thick collars, lapels, sleeves, and pant legs in no gi training compels students to refine their technical execution in pinning and submissions. Without the assistance of the gi's grips, practitioners must enhance their body positioning to effectively immobilize and submit their opponents.Limited stranglehold opportunities in no gi. The gi jacket necessitates that students safeguard against a variety of strangleholds, providing critical insights into defensive principles, particularly beneficial for beginners. When practicing without the gi, fewer stranglehold options exist, leading to enhanced focus on improving offensive submission techniques amidst the additional challenges of reduced friction and grip support.

Gi vs no gi BJJ competitions: Are there rule differences between gi and no gi jiu jitsu?

There are significant rule distinctions between gi and no gi competition matches, primarily regarding clothing and allowed techniques:

• In gi competitions, practitioners may hold and manipulate clothing, whereas in no gi, such actions are prohibited.
• IBJJF rules for no gi competitions at the brown and black belt levels permit additional leg submissions, such as heel hooks and toe holds applying outward pressure on the foot.

A wide array of competitions exists for both styles, with the IBJJF being one of the largest organization overseeing events globally. Most IBJJF competitions incorporate brackets for both gi and no gi categories, ensuring ample opportunity for participation across styles. Major organizations like Grappling Industries also mirror this offering.

Furthermore, the IBJJF hosts annual world championship events for both gi and no gi formats. Other organizations, such as the Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC), offer gi-optional events where no gi clothing is typically favored. The ADCC World Submission Fighting Championships are held annually, with national qualifiers occurring throughout the year. The ADCC's ruleset facilitates various techniques, including heel hooks, unlike the IBJJF regulations governing gi competitions.

Is gi or no gi better for beginners?

This question is dependent on individual motivations for pursuing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Many gyms commonly provide classes in both gi and no gi formats, allowing beginners to experience both environments. World Champion Bernardo Faria advocates for this diversified training approach.

John Danaher shares a similar perspective, suggesting that learning in a gi offers valuable defensive insights, such as neck defense. Conversely, no gi training can effectively hone beginners' offensive capabilities as it compels them to engage different skill sets devoid of traditional grips for control and submissions.

If one's primary interest in BJJ pertains to MMA training, esteemed MMA coach Firas Zahabi recommends prioritizing no gi practice, as it aligns more closely with the demands of MMA.

Is gi or no gi better for self-defence?

Is gi or no gi better for MMA?

Firas Zahabi, a respected figure in MMA coaching circles, emphasizes the priority of no gi training for aspiring MMA fighters; he argues that many gi-centric techniques lack relevance in MMA contexts. Instead, time invested in mastering gi