Gi vs No-Gi: What’s the Difference?

If you’re new to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, one of the first questions you’ll hear is: “Do you train Gi or No-Gi?”

At Garage Jiu Jitsu CBD, we offer both, and while the fundamentals of Jiu Jitsu stay the same, the experience can feel very different depending on what you’re wearing. If you’re trying to decide where to start or just want to understand the difference here’s a simple breakdown.

What Is Gi Jiu Jitsu?

Gi Jiu Jitsu is trained wearing a Gi, the traditional kimono-style uniform made up of a jacket, pants, and belt.

Key features of Gi training:

• Grips matter – You can grip sleeves, collars, and pants

• Slower, more methodical pace

• Strong emphasis on control, pressure, and technique

• Belts are worn and visible, showing rank and progression

  
  

Because grips play such a big role, Gi Jiu Jitsu often rewards patience, precision, and problem-solving. Many beginners find it helps them understand positions and fundamentals more clearly.

What Is No-Gi Jiu Jitsu?

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu is typically trained wearing rash guards and shorts, without the traditional Gi.

Key features of No-Gi training:

• No fabric grips (only body control and underhooks)

• Faster pace and more movement

• More emphasis on wrestling, scrambling, and athleticism

• Common in MMA and submission grappling competitions

  
  

Without the Gi to slow things down, No-Gi can feel more dynamic and cardio-intensive. That said, technique still beats strength—especially when taught properly.

Gi vs No-Gi: The Main Differences

Gi	No-Gi
Uses grips on clothing	No clothing grips
Slower, controlled pace	Faster, more explosive pace
Emphasis on precision	Emphasis on movement and timing
Traditional belt system	Rank often shown via belt or rash guard
Great for learning fundamentals	Great for athletic development

Both styles teach the same core principles of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu position before submission, leverage over strength, and control over chaos.

Which One Is Better for Beginners?

The short answer: both are great.

Many beginners start with Gi Jiu Jitsu because:

• It slows the pace down

• Mistakes are easier to feel and fix

• Grips help with control and learning positioning

Others prefer No-Gi because:

• It feels more natural and athletic

• There’s less reliance on grip strength

• It translates well to MMA and self-defence

  
  

At Garage Jiu Jitsu CBD, beginners are welcome in both Gi and No-Gi classes, and our instructors make sure techniques are taught in a way that’s accessible no matter your experience level.

Do You Need to Choose One?

Not at all.

Training both Gi and No-Gi will:

• Make your Jiu Jitsu more well-rounded

• Improve grip fighting, balance, and control

• Help you adapt to different body types and styles

  
  

Many of our members train both throughout the week, especially with our flexible timetable and unlimited membership option.

Try Both at Garage Jiu Jitsu CBD

If you’re training in Sydney’s CBD and wondering whether Gi or No-Gi is right for you, the best answer is simple: come try both.

We offer:

• Beginner-friendly classes

• Morning, lunch, and evening sessions

• A relaxed, welcoming environment

• A dedicated Brazilian Jiu Jitsu facility in the CBD

  
  

Whether you’re in a Gi, No-Gi, or still figuring it out—we’re happy to have you on the mats.