What to wear to BJJ
Wear a gi and belt for a gi class, or a rash guard and shorts for a no-gi class. For your first class, a T-shirt and sports shorts with no pockets are fine.
Gi or no-gi?
There are two kinds of BJJ class. In a gi class you wear a thick jacket, trousers and a belt. In a no-gi class you wear tight sports clothes. Check the timetable to see which one you are going to. Read gi vs no-gi to learn the difference.
What to wear in a gi class
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Gi jacket and trousers | Many gyms lend one for the first class. Some gyms ask for a certain colour. |
| Belt | New students wear a white belt. It often comes with the gi. |
| Under the jacket | Many people wear a rash guard or a tight T-shirt. Many gyms ask women to wear a rash guard or sports top. |
| Underwear | Sports underwear or compression shorts. |
What to wear in a no-gi class
- A rash guard: a tight, stretchy sports top. A tight T-shirt also works at first.
- Grappling shorts or sports shorts with no pockets, zips or long strings.
- Spats (tight sports leggings) under the shorts, if you like. Many people wear them.
Optional safety gear
- A mouthguard protects your teeth. Many people wear one, but most gyms do not require it.
- Ear guards protect your ears from rubbing. Some people wear them to prevent swollen ears.
- Knee pads or sleeves, if your knees are sore. Ask your coach if they are allowed.
What not to wear
- No jewellery: no rings, earrings, necklaces or watches. They cut skin and catch on clothes.
- No shoes on the mat. Wear sandals off the mat.
- No clothes with pockets, zips, buttons or hard parts.
- No dirty clothes. Wash everything after every session.
Maria packs a clean gi, her white belt, a rash guard and sports underwear. She adds flip-flops, water and a hair tie. She takes off her rings at home. She brings a plastic bag for the sweaty gi.
Can I wear a T-shirt to BJJ?
Yes, for your first class. A tight T-shirt is better than a loose one. Later, most people buy a rash guard.
Do I need to buy a gi before my first class?
No. Many gyms lend one. Ask the gym before you buy, because some gyms want a certain colour or patch.
What colour gi should I buy?
White, blue and black are the most common. Ask your gym, because some only allow certain colours.
Which shorts are best for a no-gi class?
Train it on the Path
The Before you roll unit turns this into short lessons: you see a position and pick the best move.