While most of our training at Gracie Barra Clearwater is done wearing the traditional kimono or “Gi”, we also train regularly without the Gi. Training without the Gi changes the game significantly as there are no clothing grips available to utilize while grappling. No Gi Jiu Jitsu also tends to have a faster pace and is more reliant on athleticism than traditional Gi Jiu Jitsu. Our school recognizes the value of training without the Gi in creating a well-rounded martial artist and so we’ve adopted No Gi training as part of our regular curriculum here in Clearwater.
It’s best to start as a beginner when doing No Gi Jiu Jitsu training. It’s also advisable that you learn first the fundamentals of Gi to start on a solid foundation. Those same principles and techniques will help you in No Gi submission grappling.
We strongly recommend that students and practitioners learn both Gi and No Gi Jiu Jitsu. Although you may have a preference, both styles teach you vital lessons, as it relates to positioning, leverage, defense, and escape, also control.
In a class where you are forbidden to grip each other’s clothes when you grapple, the appropriate clothes come into focus. You are not grappling in traditional uniform like in Gi, where you can grab onto the collar/lapel or sleeves. Many wear regular shorts and Tee-shirt, but BJJ/MMA fight shorts are available, or a pair of Gi trousers. Also, wear athletic underwear that will stay in place. A rash guard is also appropriate.
We recommend all students practice both Gi and No Gi, though it’s common for people to have a favorite. Each will teach you different valuable lessons about positioning, leverage, control, and defense/escapes.
Yes, you can train No Gi as a beginner. We recommend you also do the fundamentals classes in the Gi to build a solid foundation. You can apply many of those same techniques in No Gi submission grappling.
Yes, you will be able to apply many wrestling techniques in No Gi submission grappling, especially takedowns and some matwork. If you don’t have much experience with submission grappling, you will need to learn some new skills like submissions and guard, which are not done in wrestling. You’ll have some wrestling habits to unlearn, but many wrestlers transition smoothly into No Gi BJJ.
In No Gi Jiu Jitsu training, you learn to be proficient in attacking and escaping your opponents. You will learn to escape from every position you find yourself in. You learn to do takedowns and protect and defend yourself from taking downs. You learn advanced submission grappling, along with techniques and tactics to develop your skills and send you to the top of your game.
As you absorb this No Gi Jiu Jitsu information, everything you need to be a part of this association and be a part of a school near you is available. The No Gi method of Jiu Jitsu delivers comprehensive, intensive training to strengthen the mind, body, and spirit.