Photo by Chris Bueno Licensed Under CC BY 2.0
For anyone looking to try a fun new sport, or maybe find an intense new workout, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or BJJ might be right for you. Martial arts can be a terrific way to learn a new skill and stay fit. For those looking to start in this new environment, no gi BJJ might be the best to start with.
If you are new to the sport, no gi BJJ can be challenging, especially when thinking of what to wear for no gi BJJ, as it is different from other kinds of fighting. Luckily, here you can find all you need to know, including different techniques and fighting styles, what to expect, and what to wear for no gi BJJ.
What Is BJJ?
Brazilian jiu-jitsu, or as it is often known, BJJ, is a form of martial arts that originated in Japan. Brazilain jiu-jitsu is a type of fighting style that is based on defensive moves. It is a close contact style of fighting that focuses on a technique called grappling, to use an opponent’s force against them.
BJJ has also been slightly modified over the years and is now considered a competitive sport, with competition taking place worldwide. As it has grown more popular over the years, it has been modified and adapted to several different modern-day mixed materials arts forms that many know and love.
What To Expect
For anyone who thinks this may be the right activity for them, it can be useful to know what to expect before you start. One important tip to remember is that while on the mat or inside the gym, no shoes are allowed, so be sure to bring flip flops or something that you can slip on and off your feet comfortably.
Many of these locations have classes or sessions that typically range from one to two hours, depending on your strength and experience level. Many of these gyms will also have classes for beginners that you can sign up for, which will teach you all the essential and necessary skills.
Gi vs. No Gi
When many people think of BJJ or any mixed martial arts, one of the first images that come to mind is a gi. One example of a gi is the typical uniform or outfit that many people wear when practicing BJJ or other martial arts styles. This gi consists of a robe or jacket style top, usually made of cotton, with drawstring pants.
While jiu-jitsu is a type of close contact fighting, there are different styles and rules to the fighting that depends on whether you wear a gi while engaging in combat. While Gi is the name of a typical uniform, it is also the name of a fighting form that allows you to grab onto your opponents’ clothes. No gi is a form of BJJ that does not allow the grabbing of your opponent’s clothes.
What To Wear
For those that are new to the sport and still learning, you’re in luck! Like mentioned before, while it is traditional, it is not required for you to wear a gi when practicing jiu-jitsu. Instead of wearing the gi’s traditional uniform, a more relaxed workout gear style can be a great choice. However, you may want to think twice before showing up to class in your old baggy gym shorts and a loose shirt.
Wearing loose clothing can sometimes be a hazard in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, as there is lots of grabbing and close contact. Many people opt for a tighter and more stretch tight material instead of wearing baggy shorts and loose workout clothes, like dry fit, spandex, or even rashguard brands. These clothing types are more durable and much less likely to be grabbed by your opponent.
There are many options to wear if you are looking for something tight but can still quickly move around in. As for the bottom half of your outfit, people also often wear leggings or “spats,” which mix tighter-fitting shorts and long spandex bottoms.
Linked below, you can find several different products that would be an excellent fit for anyone searching for what to wear for no gi BJJ. Whatever your style is, there are sure to be some great options to fit anyone!
Product Recommendations
Below you can find some top-rated and individual standout products, as well as links to a few useful websites that can help you find what to wear for no gi BJJ. Some great websites like Tatami fightwear and Nobjjgear.com have excellent clothing options for men, women, and children in various sizes and styles.
Sanabul Essential MMA BJJ Cross Training Workout Shorts
These shorts are a top-rated #1 Amazon bestseller. Made of durable material and built with seam protection, these shorts are made to last and can endure even the most formidable opponents and workouts. As a bonus, these shorts also come in eight different colors and four different sizes! Made with men in mind, they also come with a loop and hook closure system that will help withstand even the toughest of competition and remain intact and tight to the body for hours.
ROAR MMA Grappling Rash Guard
This rashguard is great for no gi BJJ or any other kind of challenging exercise. Made for women, it’s a lightweight material that perfectly fits the body and gives both mobility and protection to the wearer. This shirt comes in five different color and style options and over four different sizes to choose from. Additionally, this shirt is compliant with the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation and comes with a money-back guarantee.
DRSKIN Men’s Compression Pants Dry Sports Baselayer
These popular leggings are another #1 Amazon bestseller. They come in packs of one, two, or three pairs of leggings, and the price may vary depending on how many you purchase. Thanks to a mesh, spandex, and polyester blend, these leggings are made to be a great fit for running, power yoga, and especially BJJ, as they emphasize excellent mobility and breathability within the material.
While they are made primarily with men in mind, these leggings can be an excellent fit for anyone interested in trying these out in their BJJ class. With over forty options and various sizes to choose from, there is sure to be an option that is the perfect fit for everyone.