BJJ No-Gi Complete Guide: Everything You Need to Start
No-gi grappling is the fastest-growing branch of submission grappling. Whether you're preparing for ADCC, MMA, or just want to diversify your game, this guide covers everything you need.
Gi vs. No-Gi: Key Differences
Grips: No-gi uses wrist, neck, and body clinch β no collar or sleeve grips. Pace: No-gi is typically faster with less grip fighting. Leg locks: ADCC allows heel hooks for all belts; most no-gi circuits allow more leg attacks than IBJJF. Attire: Rash guard + shorts/spats instead of gi.
Essential No-Gi Techniques to Learn First
Guillotine choke (arm-in and front head lock), Double leg and single leg takedown, Heel hook (inside & outside), Rear naked choke from back control, Leg drag pass, X-guard sweeps, Body triangle from back. See: Best No-Gi Techniques β
What to Wear for No-Gi
Compression rash guard (long or short sleeve): protects from mat burns, reduces friction for guillotine defense. Shorts (board shorts or grappling shorts) or compression spats. No-gi grappling socks optional. Ear guards for cauliflower prevention if training intensely.
ADCC Rules Basics
No points in first half of match. Second half: takedown = 2 pts, back control = 3 pts, mount = 3 pts, near-submission = 1 pt. Heel hooks legal for all divisions. Overtime after regulation tie. See: Full ADCC Rules β
How to Train No-Gi if You're a Gi Player
Start by drilling your existing technique vocabulary without grips. Find equivalent no-gi entries (e.g., seat belt for back take instead of collar). Embrace the scramble β no-gi rewards those who can fight in transitions. Train with wrestlers: their base and level-changes will challenge your guard.
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β FAQ
Is no-gi or gi BJJ better for beginners?
Gi BJJ is generally recommended first because the slower pace and additional grips give beginners more time to think and apply technique. However, no-gi is equally valid β many top competitors started no-gi from the beginning.
Can I compete no-gi without training gi?
Yes. Many top no-gi competitors train little or no gi. If your primary goal is no-gi competition (ADCC trials, WNO, EBI, etc.), focusing on no-gi training is appropriate.
What leg locks are allowed in no-gi?
This depends on the ruleset. IBJJF No-Gi allows heel hooks at brown/black belt. ADCC allows heel hooks for all divisions. EBI and WNO allow heel hooks at all levels. Always check the specific competition ruleset.
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