Should You Wear a Jiu Jitsu GI or Go Without?

There are many reasons why one would want to begin training Jiu-Jitsu. Whether it is for self-defense, fitness, or just something new and exciting to try out, most people do not think about what they should be wearing when they go into the gym for the first time. For those who have never played this sport before, some tips can help you prepare yourself physically and mentally for your first day of training.  

You will need to consider whether or not you should wear a jiu jitsu gi during your first few classes at the gym. Many gyms require their students to wear this traditional uniform; however, others allow students to train without any clothes on whatsoever.

What Is the Jiu-jitsu GI and What Does It Do for You?

The gi is a uniform typically made of one or two pieces of thick fabric with no elastic. The uniform was designed so that its wearer would not get caught up in the clothing when fighting. Ties at the waist can secure a traditional gi, usually done by belt material, cord, or rope. Most gis have a collar, which helps to protect the neck during a chokehold. Generally, a gi weighs at least two pounds and is not made of moisture-wicking fabrics or other modern materials. The traditional Jiu-Jitsu GI was designed for training purposes only and should not be worn outside of class unless you are doing a demonstration or some other event requiring you to wear it.

Benefits of Wearing a Jiu Jitsu GI

Most people wear a gi during Jiu-Jitsu class because it helps to keep them warm when the temperature in the gym is low. The thick fabric also helps prevent injury from landing on hard surfaces, such as concrete or tile flooring, when you fall.  Some practitioners do not like wearing a gi at all times because of its lack of mobility and distraction from class.

When you wear the gi, you receive more attention. It’s easier for your instructor to see what techniques you are doing to see your body. There may be certain maneuvers that require different grip styles that may not be possible to perform in street clothes or board shorts.  

Disadvantages of Wearing a Jiu Jitsu GI

The gi is not designed for comfort and should not be worn as streetwear. Training in a gi can be highly uncomfortable because of its scratchy fabric and even stitches inside the seams. The material used does not breathe well so that it could irritate skin during prolonged use or struggle.  

The lack of visibility in a gi can be dangerous when practicing certain moves. If you are supposed to attack an opponent behind, it isn’t easy to see your target with the uniform on. In addition, you cannot always tell if someone is wearing street clothes or a uniform underneath their garment.

Such clothing may distract from training by giving the wearer too much confidence. Most people in a gi feel that they are ready for competition because of its protection when sparring. They may allow their guard to drop or not practice specific strikes or blocks due to the difficulty of maneuvering in the clothing.

The Benefits and Disadvantages of Going Without One 

When you are training Jiu-Jitsu without a gi, it will be more difficult for your instructor to observe the moves you are attempting to master. Due to the lack of visibility provided by the apparel, you may not receive as much attention from your coach throughout the class as you would like.

It is always possible that someone could forget their gi and feel uncomfortable training in street clothes. No one likes to work out without the proper attire, so if you feel self-conscious about being one of the few students who do not wear a uniform, it may be hard for you to concentrate on class.

Furthermore, you would not gain the same level of protection if you were not wearing a gi while practicing. When trying to perform techniques in street clothes, you may find yourself struggling with your movements and slipping quickly.

You can wear whatever you want when training at home and in competition by wearing a judo suit in the form of a rash guard and board shorts or grappling pants for men. Women can wear a sports bra and spats underneath their rash guard. Jiu-Jitsu is about enjoying yourself and working at your own pace, so if you feel more comfortable without the gi, then go for it!

Remember: If you choose not to wear a gi when training, make sure that you properly defend yourself in an actual situation. It would help if you always use caution when working out and never let your guard down because you think you are invincible.

How To Choose the Best Size for Your Body Type?

There are several things that you should consider when purchasing a Jiu Jitsu Gi. The first thing is to find out how much time you’ll be wearing this uniform every day. Do not purchase the same gi that your instructor uses because it will probably fit them better, even if they are larger than you are. Also, make sure to choose a gi that will fit your body type. Not everyone is the same size, and the same uniform may not be suitable for everyone. For example, a short person may have problems with a uniform that is too long or wide, while a taller person might struggle with one too small in length.  

Size matters when you get ready to purchase a Jiu Jitsu Gi. Your height can usually give you a good indication of what weight gi to choose, but remember that there is no perfect fit for everyone. If your uniform does not immediately feel right when you try it on, do not feel compelled to keep it because you already purchased it. In the end, finding an array of sizes and shapes that work perfectly for everyone is impossible.

When shopping online, you can find products that will measure your height and weight to help determine the correct size of gi you should wear. Just make sure to think about what kind of training you’ll be doing daily and choose an outfit accordingly. A good rule of thumb is to remember that you can always take away from a uniform, but it is easier to add on.

How To Take Care of Your Jiu-jitsu GI So That It Lasts Longer?

Make careful to follow the directions for cleaning and maintaining your gi. Keep in mind that you don’t want it to shrink significantly or fade in color after only a few uses, so keeping these considerations in mind while washing and drying are crucial.

Additionally, do not allow another student to use your gi if they are significantly larger or smaller than you. In addition, their height and weight will have an impact on how your uniform fits, so they may stretch out some sections of the outfit while making other portions of the costume too tight or loose on themselves.

Do not bring your Jiu Jitsu gi to class if you are sick because you could risk infecting other students along with yourself. Always do your best to wash your uniform after each training session, but if you cannot clean it immediately, make sure to place it in an area where no one else will come in contact with it.

Conclusion

Wearing a Jiu Jitsu GI can be very comfortable with its thick fabric and padding for protection. However, it’s challenging to move with the Gi on, which could distract from your training. If you choose not to wear a gi when training, make sure that you properly defend yourself in an actual situation because it would help if you always use caution when working out and never let your guard down because you think you are invincible. Furthermore, size matters when getting ready to purchase a Jiu-Jitsu Gi, so consider what kind of training or practice is most common among students before making any decisions about sizing and shaping accordingly. And if you are looking to acquire a new uniform, make sure to pay attention to the care instructions for your gi.