01/07/2021
NoGi grappling has become much more popular in recent years. Largely due to the popularity of MMA. I understand why MMA fighters would training solely NoGi to advance their profession but I don’t get why others don’t train both. That said I still prefer watching Gi BJJ, I enjoy the throws and submission techniques which utilise grips, and the high level chess match that tends to take place on the mats between two fighters using very subtle movements. But I’d be lying if I said NoGi wasn’t equally as entertaining depending on the combatants. Butt scooting bores the hell out of me but throw some wrestling in the equation I’m all in…anyways…
In my opinion it can only be beneficial to apply your time to both Gi and NoGi forms of submission grappling, especially if your goal is to become a complete martial artist. I think this because if you were to only apply yourself to one or the other you would 100% have some form of short fall in your overall game.
For instance - let’s take Black Belt Gi players that don’t train any NoGi whatsoever.. Yes they understand most positions and submissions but remove the options for grips, lapel chokes and even just the absence of friction from the uniform itself would cause huge issues for someone who relies on those techniques once the jacket and pants are removed.
And the same goes the other way, place a solely NoGi grappler who utilises scrambles, and being more slippery in to a kimono and watch them either get lapel choked or utterly pinned within a short amount of time.
Other than enjoying both disciplines this is the main reason we encourage training both Gi and NoGi. My own coach Jack has been always been a huge advocate for training in both and in implementing techniques for both Gi and NoGi in to every session. With Gorilla Grapplers I intend on doing the same.
In conclusion - TRAIN BOTH GI AND NOGI
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