Gi, No-Gi & More: The World of Jiu-Jitsu

By Rod Bourgoine


There are several different types of Jiu-Jitsu styles out there, and you have probably heard words such Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu, Gi Jiu-Jitsu and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Each of them is similar in many ways but each of them does have a few key differences.

In general, Jiu-Jitsu is a form of an ancient combat art known as Jujutsu. When interpreted, the word ju means to yield or to be flexible, while jutsu simply means art. Anyone who has utilized Jiu-Jitsu techniques can tell you that flexibility and learning to adapt to the other fighter is an important element of training. Jiu-Jitsu provides you with skills that will help you overcome your opponent, even a larger and heavier fighter.

Many mixed martial arts gyms offer Gi classes or perhaps just No-Gi classes, although some more comprehensive gyms will offer both classes. A Gi is the kimono-style, belted uniform that Jiu-Jitsu fighters will wear. A No-Gi class is basically a Jiu-Jitsu class where you do not wear the Gi. In a No-Gi class, one typically wears a t-shirt or a rash guard and a pair of board shorts or MMA shorts.

The uniform is different and because of that, the fighting techniques are a bit different, as well. When you wear the Gi, you can grab onto to the opponent's uniform, which can be a helpful way to dominate the opponent while you are grappling. However, you are not allowed to grab onto clothing in a No-Gi contest, and instead must rely on skills that help you grab key areas such as elbows, the neck or the knees. In this way, Gi offers a bit more flexibility in fighting.

It might seem like No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu training is less effective since you cannot hold onto the uniform. However, No-Gi is more transferable to mixed martial arts in general because you don't wear a Gi during an MMA bout. If possible, it is recommended that you take both types of classes as they focus on different types of skills. The more skills you acquire, the better your overall game plan will be, so there is a definite advantage in being proficient in both styles.

The difference between Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is subtle. Some say that the main difference lies in philosophy. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is considered more as a form of self-defense where as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses more on sports and competition. That said, both styles include the same submission, controls and sweeps. So while you might not ever see a GJJ competition, an expert in GJJ has the same skill set as a fighter in BJJ.




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