Gi vs. No-Gi: What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Train?

If you've been around the mats for more than five minutes, you've probably heard people talking about "Gi" and "No-Gi" Jiu Jitsu.

New students often wonder which one to start with, and long-time grapplers love to debate which is better. Truth is, they’re both excellent. But they offer different experiences, and depending on your goals, one might suit you better, or you might end up loving both.

Let’s break it down, nice and simple.

What Is “Gi” Jiu Jitsu?

The Gi is the traditional uniform used in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. It’s a thick cotton jacket, pants, and a belt that shows your rank. When you train in the Gi, you can grab the fabric, sleeves, collars, pant legs, to control your opponent. This opens up a huge variety of techniques, from slick collar chokes to complicated lapel guards that make you feel like you’re playing 4D chess.

Pros of Gi Training:

• Slower pace, great for learning the finer details

• Huge variety of grips and submissions

• Develops patience, timing, and precision

• Makes your defence better (because there’s more to defend)

  
  

What Is “No-Gi” Jiu Jitsu?

No-Gi is trained in athletic wear, rash guard, shorts, and no belt. Since there’s no fabric to grab, it’s faster, sweatier, and more explosive. You’ll rely more on body positioning, under hooks, and control through frames and pressure. No-Gi tends to mirror wrestling and MMA more closely, so it feels more intense right out of the gate.

Pros of No-Gi Training:

• Faster pace, great for fitness

• Simpler grips and streamlined attacks

• Better crossover with MMA or real-world self-defence

• Teaches you to control without relying on clothing

  
  

Which One Should You Train?

Honestly? Both. Training in both styles gives you a well-rounded game, and each one strengthens your skills in the other.

But if you’re just starting out:

• Go with Gi if you like the traditional feel, want to build technique from the ground up, or enjoy a more thoughtful, methodical style.

• Try No-Gi if you want a faster pace, plan to cross-train in MMA, or simply prefer the look and feel of rash guards over heavy uniforms.

At Global Jiu Jitsu, we offer both — and we’ll guide you through the differences without making you feel like you’ve just walked into a martial arts cult.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Pick a Side

This isn’t Coke vs. Pepsi. There’s no right answer, and you’re not betraying anyone by switching things up. Many of our members start in Gi, fall in love with No-Gi later, or bounce between both depending on how sore they are that day. The point is to keep showing up, keep learning, and enjoy the ride.

Want to try a class in each? Come on in. We’ll help you find your groove — Gi, No-Gi, or both.

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