I’m Seidler Rodrigo, Head Professor of Gracie Barra Riverton, and one of the most common questions I get from students, especially those trying their first class, is: “What makes No-Gi BJJ different from Gi BJJ?” The truth is, both are essential parts of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey, and understanding their differences can help you make better choices based on your goals, preferences, and training style.
In our school, we welcome people of all ages and backgrounds, kids, women, parents, professionals, and competitors. Whether you’re trying your first class or you’re an experienced martial artist looking to expand your game, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Gi and No-Gi jiu jitsu classes, so you can feel confident stepping onto the mat.
What Is the Difference Between Gi and No-Gi Jiu Jitsu?
Let’s start with the basics. In Gi Jiu-Jitsu, practitioners wear a kimono-style uniform with a jacket, pants, and belt. This allows for a wide range of grip-based techniques, grabbing sleeves, collars, pant legs, and even using your opponent’s lapel for submissions or control. It’s a highly strategic and methodical style that emphasizes precision, posture, and grip fighting.
No-Gi BJJ, on the other hand, is practiced in athletic wear, typically a rash guard and shorts. Without the ability to hold onto clothing, techniques shift toward body control, overhooks, underhooks, head positioning, and transitional speed. You’ll notice more scrambling, faster movement, and reliance on timing and explosive power rather than grip-based control.
This distinction significantly impacts your strategy. In Gi, you have more time to set up a move thanks to stronger grip control. In No-Gi, you need to act faster, react quicker, and maintain tight body contact to control your opponent.
Gi vs. No-Gi Jiu Jitsu: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Gi Jiu Jitsu | No-Gi Jiu Jitsu |
| Uniform | Traditional Gi (jacket, pants, belt) | Rash guard and shorts |
| Grips | Use of collars, sleeves, and pant legs for control | No clothing grips – relies on body control and underhooks |
| Speed | Generally slower and more methodical | Faster-paced with more scrambles |
| Techniques | Lapel chokes, spider guard, grip-based sweeps | Clinch control, leg locks, wrestling transitions |
| Strategy | Emphasis on precision and grip fighting | Emphasis on movement, pressure, and athleticism |
| Ideal For | Beginners, traditionalists, competition prep | MMA fighters, self-defense, cardio-focused students |
| Common in Competitions | IBJJF Gi Tournaments | ADCC, Submission-Only Events |
| Learning Curve | Steeper for grip control but builds strong fundamentals | Requires quick reflexes and fluid movement |
| Self-Defense Application | Good for scenarios involving clothing grips (jackets, etc.) | Ideal for real-life situations without grips |
Who Benefits Most from No-Gi Jiu Jitsu?
No-Gi training is excellent for students who want to develop athleticism, improve cardiovascular endurance, and sharpen their reflexes. It’s also especially beneficial for those who plan to cross-train in MMA or apply self-defense techniques in real-world scenarios, where an opponent likely won’t be wearing a gi.
At Gracie Barra Riverton, we’ve designed our No-Gi program to be beginner-friendly while still offering challenges for advanced students. I often recommend it to parents who are seeking jiu jitsu for kids that builds coordination and agility, and to women who want a faster-paced, empowering workout that sharpens reflexes and builds confidence.
When Should You Start No-Gi BJJ?
The best time to start is always now. Whether you’re a complete beginner or already training in Gi, there’s value in cross-training. Many students worry they need to “master” one before moving to the other, but that’s not necessary.
In fact, alternating between Gi and No-Gi jiu jitsu classes will accelerate your growth. No-Gi sharpens your movement and gripless control, while Gi teaches you detailed control and slower, technical setups. The two styles balance each other beautifully.
At Gracie Barra Riverton, our weekly schedule includes both class types, so you can try both without changing locations, uniforms, or instructors. You’ll learn at your own pace, surrounded by teammates and coaches who support your progress.
Where Can You Learn No-Gi Jiu Jitsu Near You?
Right here at Gracie Barra Riverton, and I’d be honored to welcome you. We serve Riverton, Bluffdale, Herriman, and surrounding areas, providing a clean, safe, and supportive space to train both Gi and No-Gi.
Our academy follows the official Gracie Barra curriculum, which means you’ll experience structured lessons, progressive learning, and a focus on character development, not just techniques. Whether you’re searching for jiu jitsu near you for fitness, self-defense, family bonding, or competitive goals, we’re here to help you start strong.
Why Do Some Students Choose Gi, Others No-Gi?
It often comes down to personal preference and training goals. Some students prefer the methodical pace and chess-like nature of Gi, while others enjoy the fast, fluid movement of No-Gi. Women often start with Gi for the control and technique, then later embrace No-Gi for the intensity and cardio benefits. Kids typically love both, learning discipline in the Gi and building coordination in No-Gi.
In my experience as head professor, the most well-rounded students are those who embrace both styles. That’s why we always encourage our members to try each, ask questions, and explore which combination works best for them.
How Are Techniques Different in No-Gi vs. Gi?
The techniques you’ll learn in both classes share the same fundamentals, balance, leverage, control, but the execution varies. In No-Gi BJJ, you’ll rely more on clinch control, hand fighting, body pressure, and tight transitions.
Sweeps, submissions, and positional control all exist in both styles, but your setups change. For example, you might finish a choke using a lapel in Gi, while in No-Gi you’d need to use a front headlock or arm triangle. You’ll also find a greater emphasis on leg locks, back takes, and wrestling-based entries in No-Gi.
By learning both styles, you’ll naturally expand your technical toolbox and become a much more adaptive grappler.
How Often Should You Train No-Gi?
There’s no single answer, it’s all about balance. If you’re training for competition, I recommend a 50/50 split between Gi and No-Gi. If your focus is self-defense or MMA, then leaning more into No-Gi makes sense.
For those looking to improve fitness, lose weight, or simply feel stronger and more confident, especially women and parents looking for something fresh, our coaches will help tailor a training plan that fits your routine and energy levels.
Remember, consistency matters more than quantity. Even one No-Gi session a week can make a huge difference in how you move and perform.
What Can You Expect From Your First No-Gi Class?
You’ll be greeted with respect, guided step-by-step, and paired with teammates who want to help, not hurt, you. Our beginner No-Gi classes include a thorough warm-up, technique breakdowns, and controlled drilling.
There’s no pressure to perform, and you’re not expected to know everything on day one. Whether you’re here for jiu jitsu for women, kids’ classes, or adult fitness, our goal is to make your first experience memorable and empowering.
I personally ensure every student feels welcomed and supported from the first handshake to the last roll.
Ready to Step on the Mat?
Whether you want to learn self-defense, lose weight, gain discipline, or just try something new, Gracie Barra Riverton has a spot for you. Come experience both Gi and No-Gi jiu jitsu classes, and discover what makes each one unique and powerful.
Book your free trial class today and find out why so many families, professionals, and athletes in Riverton are making jiu jitsu near you part of their lifestyle. I’ll be right there to guide you through your first steps, see you on the mat!
