If you are new to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, one of the first questions you will run into is gi vs no-gi jiu-jitsu. What is the difference, and which one should you start with? Both styles share the same core positions and principles, but they feel different on the mat and tend to suit different personalities and goals.
Here is a plain-English breakdown of the differences between gi and no-gi, how each one trains you, and how to choose (or combine) them at our Chicago academy.
Gi vs No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu: The Basic Differences
Gi jiu-jitsu is trained in the traditional kimono and belt. You can grip the collar, sleeves and pants, which opens up a huge range of controls, sweeps and chokes. No-gi jiu-jitsu is trained in a rash guard and shorts. There is no fabric to hold, so you control your partner with grips on the wrists, arms, head and body instead.
- Grips: gi uses cloth grips; no-gi relies on body grips and underhooks.
- Pace: gi tends to be slower and more methodical; no-gi usually moves faster.
- Friction: the gi creates friction that makes escapes harder; in no-gi, sweat and smooth fabric make positions slippier.
- Techniques: many collar chokes and sleeve-based guards exist only in the gi, while no-gi puts more emphasis on movement and scrambles.
Which Style Fits Your Personality?
There is no wrong answer, but these patterns are a good starting point:
You may prefer the gi if you…
- Enjoy a calm, analytical, step-by-step approach
- Like having many options to solve a problem
- Want to build patience, precision and a deep technical base
You may prefer no-gi if you…
- Love high-energy, fast-moving workouts
- Prefer a fluid, instinctive style with quick transitions
- Are curious about wrestling or MMA-style grappling
Fitness Benefits of Gi and No-Gi Training
Both styles build strength, endurance and flexibility. Gi training involves constant gripping, so it develops strong hands and forearms and rewards slow, controlled pressure. No-gi training keeps you moving and scrambling, which makes it especially cardio-heavy and great for agility and conditioning.
Why Many Students Train Both
Most experienced students end up training both, because each style sharpens the other. The gi teaches precise control and patience that make your no-gi tighter. No-gi teaches speed and adaptability that make your gi game more dynamic. Our coaches are proof: Professor Hannette Staack is a World Champion in both gi and no-gi, and Professor Vinicius “Machine” Pereira won the IBJJF No-Gi Pan Americans as a brown belt.
How to Try Gi and No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu in Chicago
At Brazil 021 you can try both styles. Most adult beginner sessions are in the gi through our Jiu-Jitsu Fundamentals class, and there is a beginner no-gi class on Friday evenings. As you progress, our no-gi jiu-jitsu classes and the All Levels & Advanced classes let you go deeper in either direction. Check the BJJ class schedule for exact days and times.
Not sure what to wear or bring? Our guide to what to bring to BJJ class covers gis, rash guards and the rest of your bag.
FAQ
Should a beginner start with gi or no-gi jiu-jitsu?
Either works. Many beginners start in the gi because the extra grips slow things down and make positions easier to learn, then add no-gi once they feel comfortable.
Is no-gi better for self-defense than gi?
Both help. No-gi trains you to control someone without relying on their clothing, while the gi teaches how jackets and collars can be used against you. Training both gives you the widest set of skills.
Do I need a gi for my first class?
Ask us when you book, since it depends on which class you try. Our guide on what to expect at your first BJJ class walks you through the rest.
The best way to discover which style fits you is to step on the mat. Book a free trial class and feel the difference for yourself.
