Gi vs. No-Gi for Beginners: Which Should You Choose First?
If you’re new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), one of the first questions you might ask is: “Should I start with gi or no-gi?” This is a common dilemma for beginners because both styles of training offer unique benefits. The gi is the traditional kimono-style uniform used in BJJ, while no-gi training is done in rashguards and shorts.
In this guide, we’ll break down the difference between gi and no-gi Jiu-Jitsu, explain the benefits of each, and help you decide which is the best starting point for your BJJ journey.
Training in the Gi
Training in the gi is the traditional form of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The thick jacket and pants allow practitioners to grab grips on the collar, sleeves, and pants, creating a highly technical style of grappling.
Key Benefits of Gi Training:
Grip Fighting & Control – You’ll learn how to control opponents using strong grips, which builds patience and precision.
Slower Pace – The gi naturally slows down scrambles, giving beginners more time to think and apply techniques.
Fundamentals First – Training in the gi reinforces posture, balance, and proper mechanics.
Traditional Roots – The gi connects you to BJJ’s martial arts heritage.
For many students, starting in the gi builds a strong foundation that makes it easier to transition into no-gi later.
Training No-Gi
No-gi BJJ is practiced in athletic wear (rashguard, shorts, spats) without the grips of the gi. This makes it faster and more dynamic.
Key Benefits of No-Gi Training:
Faster Pace – Without grips to slow things down, scrambles and transitions happen quickly.
Body Control & Timing – Instead of relying on fabric grips, you’ll learn to control opponents using underhooks, head position, and movement.
Self-Defense & MMA Crossover – No-gi techniques translate directly into mixed martial arts and real-life self-defense situations.
Explosive Conditioning – The pace of no-gi training helps build endurance and agility.
No-gi can feel more “realistic” for those interested in MMA or fitness-focused training.
Key Differences Between Gi and No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu
To better understand gi vs no-gi BJJ, here are the main distinctions:
Attire: Gi (kimono) vs. rashguard/shorts.
Grips: Gi allows sleeve, collar, and pant grips; no-gi relies on clinch and body positioning.
Pace: Gi is typically slower and more methodical, while no-gi is faster and scramble-heavy.
Techniques: Some submissions and guards work best in the gi (lapel chokes), while leg locks and wrestling transitions shine in no-gi.
Competition Rules: Different tournament circuits exist for gi and no-gi, with varying rulesets.
Which is Best for Beginners?
So, should you start with gi or no-gi?
Start with the Gi if you want to build strong fundamentals, learn traditional BJJ, and develop technical precision.
Start with No-Gi if your goals are MMA-focused, you prefer a faster pace, or you want direct self-defense applications.
At the end of the day, there’s no wrong choice—the best path is to try both and see which you enjoy more. Many successful practitioners train in both styles to become well-rounded grapplers.
Tips for Beginners Choosing Between Gi and No-Gi
When deciding where to start, consider your goals:
For Fitness & Fun – Either style works, but gi might feel more structured for beginners.
For Self-Defense – No-gi may translate more directly to real-world scenarios.
For Competition – Choose based on which tournament style excites you (IBJJF gi events vs. ADCC-style no-gi).
For MMA Aspirations – No-gi aligns more closely with MMA grappling.
Still not sure? Try both! Many academies (including ours) offer trial classes in both gi and no-gi so you can experience each firsthand.
Whether you start in gi or no-gi, the most important step is simply beginning your journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for beginners. Both styles will challenge you, build confidence, and help you develop real martial arts skills.
👉 Ready to find out which style is right for you? Check out our Adult BJJ Program, view our class schedule, and sign up for a free trial class today. Come train with us, try both styles, and see which one fits your goals best!