Gi vs No Gi BJJ: What is the difference?

Total beginners are often met with some confusion when they read our timetable: "What is the difference between gi and no gi?"

It's a fair question, but one that takes a little time to explain fully, making it a little tricky to do on our timetable or on a social media post. So, we thought it was time to create a dedicated guide to the difference between gi and no gi grappling.

Gi vs No gi: The basic differences

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) comes in two main styles: gi and no gi.

A gi is the traditional jacket and pants you wear when training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. No gi, on the other hand, requires more casual apparel, typically a pair of shorts and t-shirt or a rash guard.

While the fundamentals of grappling remain the same, using technique and leverage to control and submit your opponent, the presence or absence of the traditional kimono (gi) changes the game in several key ways.

The Gi: A tactical tool

The gi provides numerous grips: sleeves, collars and pant legs can all be used to control, sweep or submit opponents. This slower, more methodical style emphasises grip fighting, positional control and technical precision. Matches often revolve around breaking grips and setting up attacks like collar chokes, lapel guards and intricate sweeps that rely on the extra friction the gi provides.

Training in the gi can sharpen your fundamentals, as the grips limit explosive escapes and force you to think several moves ahead. Many people also enjoy it due to being able to progress through the belt system.

No Gi: Fast, dynamic and slippery

No gi BJJ is practised in shorts and a rash guard. Without the gi, there are fewer grips, and sweat makes holding onto an opponent more challenging. This results in a faster, more dynamic style with a greater emphasis on wrestling-based takedowns, body control, and leg entanglements. Techniques like heel hooks, arm drags and overhooks become central, and matches can feel more scrambly and explosive.

Some people see no gi as more exciting and is seen in some of the world's most exciting grappling competitions including ADCC and CJI.

Gi vs No Gi: Which is right for you?

Both styles build transferable skills. Gi training can refine your technical understanding, timing, and patience, while no gi sharpens your athleticism, transitions, and gripless control. Many successful grapplers and the majority of Borderlands Grappling students train in both to become well-rounded.

Ultimately, your choice comes down to personal preference and goals. Want the traditional BJJ experience, with a focus on technical mastery and the ability to work towards belts? Try gi. Prefer a faster pace with fewer grips and a more wrestling-heavy feel? No gi may be for you.

The truth is, BJJ is one art with two flavours. Whichever path you choose, you’ll be learning the same core principles of leverage, control and submission, just expressed in different ways.

Gi and no gi grappling at Borderlands

Our timetable offers both gi and no gi classes, check out our timetable to find a class that suits you. Plus, we have made it easier to discover which is right for you with a free trial.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch.