Ever walked into a No Gi BJJ class feeling like a fish out of water, unsure of what to wear? What are you supposed to wear to no-gi BJJ? Maybe you've been caught in the unenviable position of wearing a tight spandex ensemble while everyone else rocked athletic shorts and rashguards. Don't sweat it, we've all been there. In the spirit of camaraderie, let's unravel this Gordian knot together.
In this article, we will cover:
We've already discussed what to wear under your gi. But in this article, we'll discuss what to wear when there's no gi at all.
When you walk onto the mats, you want to feel like a warrior ready for battle, not a misplaced marathon runner. But what constitutes an ideal no gi outfit? Picture this - you're a knight, but instead of plate armor, you're sporting breathable athletic fabric designed to help you conquer your opponent.
In a No Gi setting, the battle armor typically comprises a rashguard and grappling shorts or spats. Rashguards are moisture-wicking shirts designed to keep you cool and dry. Grappling shorts, on the other hand, are built for flexibility, providing the freedom of movement necessary for executing techniques. Remember, functionality should be your North Star when choosing your outfit.
Choosing the right shirt for No Gi BJJ is like choosing the right partner for a dance - it should move with you, not against you. But what's the magic potion here?
The answer - rashguards. Rashguards are the Bruce Lee of the No Gi outfit universe - adaptable, resilient, and almost a prerequisite for victory. Their skin-tight nature minimizes the risk of accidental grabs during intense rolls. When choosing a rashguard, look for one that's breathable, durable, and doesn't chafe your skin.
For the pants, you've got two viable options: grappling shorts or spats. Grappling shorts offer excellent mobility while providing a protective layer between you and the mat. Spats, like the rashguards, are form-fitting, offering the benefit of reducing friction burns from the mat.
For the warrior women in the No Gi world, the selection of shorts presents a crucial decision. Like a lighthouse guiding ships in the dark, the right shorts can be the difference between an uncomfortable roll and a seamless one.
Women's No Gi shorts come in different styles, but the prime attribute should be comfort and durability. Look for shorts with a secure yet non-restrictive waistband. Many women prefer shorts with a bit of stretch to allow a wide range of movements. One golden rule though, avoid any shorts with zippers or buttons - you don't want a rogue zip causing mayhem mid-roll!
Even in a No Gi class, there can be times when you might have to don a gi. In such cases, what do you wear under those gi pants?
Consider this - you're running a marathon, not a sprint. Cotton briefs or moisture-wicking athletic underwear should do the trick. Avoid loose boxers, as they can bunch up and become uncomfortable. Ladies, consider sports briefs or compression shorts. It's about balance, like a well-executed armbar, offering both comfort and practicality.
Whether you're a white belt taking your first steps or a black belt with years on the mat, the principles remain the same. Dress for success, dress for functionality.
For newbies, focus on comfort and functionality. Veteran players, pay attention to the quality of your gear - better materials often provide enhanced durability and comfort. Remember, whether you're a new fish in the pond or the old turtle, the gear doesn't make the player - it's the heart and the spirit that counts.
Once upon a time, a young man named Eddie Bravo made a splash in the BJJ world. He found that traditional BJJ wasn't quite his groove. So, he focused on No Gi grappling, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Eddie’s belief that No Gi would be more applicable in real-world situations led to a wave of interest in the style. To this day, No Gi classes are a testament to his legacy - a legacy built not in gis, but in rashguards and grappling shorts.
What do the experts say about No Gi attire? The consensus is loud and clear - prioritize comfort, function, and durability. Like a well-executed choke, your outfit should be seamless and effective.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and UFC champion, Demian Maia, emphasizes the importance of wearing proper attire for training. According to him, the right gear not only prevents injury but also helps one perform better.
Now, you might ask, "Can't I just wear my regular workout clothes?" Sure, if you're in a pinch. But it's a bit like bringing a butter knife to a sword fight. Regular workout clothes might not stand the rigors of intense grappling and could even result in injuries from accidental grabbing or snagging.
Meet Dave, a seasoned gi player. He thought he was ready for his first No Gi class. He strolled in wearing his usual gym shorts and a loose T-shirt. Midway through the session, his shirt got twisted and his shorts started slipping. Lesson learned, Dave now swears by his trusty rashguard and grappling shorts.
What to wear to No Gi BJJ isn't just about fashion, it's about function. Much like how each technique has a purpose on the mat, every piece of your outfit has a role to play. It might seem complicated at first, but it's as straightforward as a well-executed triangle choke. The right gear can help you train efficiently and safely, keeping your mind focused on the fight instead of your outfit.
But here's the twist - what you wear doesn't define your skill. It merely aids it. So yes, choose your outfit wisely, but don't forget that it's the spirit, the heart, and the will to learn that truly makes a great grappler. Outfit or not, it's you who makes the difference on the mat.
In Gi BJJ, practitioners wear a traditional gi, which includes a heavy cotton jacket, pants, and a belt. The gi can be grabbed and used for techniques. No Gi BJJ, on the other hand, typically involves wearing a rashguard and shorts. The techniques in No Gi are more akin to wrestling as you cannot grab your opponent's clothing.
Yes, it's highly recommended. Rashguards are designed to minimize the risk of mat burn and skin infections, and they also prevent your opponent from grabbing onto loose clothing.
While it's possible, it's not recommended. Regular workout clothes might not stand the rigors of intense grappling, could get caught up during rolling, and might even result in injuries.
Ready to roll? Remember, it's not about the clothes, but the warrior within. So, suit up in your no gi gear, step onto the mat, and let your journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu begin. Embrace the grind, strive for progress, and let your spirit shine through each roll. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and grapple!