To Gi or No-Gi, that is the question

Kong Martial Arts
Jun 24
2 min read

Gi vs No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve recently started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) at Kong Martial Arts, or are thinking about it in the near future, you’ve probably heard people talk about Gi and No-Gi—and maybe you’re wondering what the big difference is.

Both styles are forms of grappling, both teach real-world self-defence, and both will push your fitness and mental strength to the next level. But there are some key differences worth understanding as you progress in your journey.

What Is Gi Jiu-Jitsu?

Gi BJJ is practiced wearing the traditional uniform called a Gi—a thick jacket, pants, and a belt that shows your rank. (Yes you sweat a lot in the summer!) The Gi adds a new layer of strategy because you can grip your opponent’s clothing to control, sweep, and submit them.

Key characteristics of Gi:

Slower, more technical pace for learning: Grips on sleeves, collars, and pants create a more methodical game.
More grip fighting: Knowing how to break and use grips becomes a key skill.
Expanded technique set: Some submissions and sweeps only work in the Gi due to the extra material.

Think of Gi Jiu-Jitsu like chess—it’s technical, patient, and strategic.

What Is No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu?

No-Gi BJJ is practiced in rash guards, shorts, or spats—no jacket, no pants to grip. Without the Gi to slow things down, No-Gi often feels faster and more dynamic.

Key characteristics of No-Gi:

Faster pace: Less friction and fewer grips mean transitions and scrambles happen quickly.
Focus on body control: You’ll rely more on underhooks, overhooks, and positioning.
Different submissions: You’ll see more leg locks and wrestling-style takedowns in No-Gi.

No-Gi feels more like a high-speed puzzle, well suited to MMA—reaction time and athleticism play a bigger role.

to gi or no-gi? Which Should You Train?

Both!

At Kong Jiu-Jitsu, we believe training in both Gi and No-Gi helps you become a more well-rounded grappler. The Gi sharpens your technique and grip control, while No-Gi pushes your speed, timing, and movement.

Whether you prefer the technical chess match of the Gi or the fast-paced flow of No-Gi, each style has its own lessons—and mastering both will level up your Jiu-Jitsu like nothing else.