Why Jiu-Jitsu is Amazing for Kids and Teens

Starting out in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on the Gold Coast is exciting, but one of the first questions new students ask is: Should I train in the Gi or No-Gi? The truth is, both have their benefits — and the best choice depends on what you’re looking for.

Training in the Gi

The Gi is the traditional uniform (the jacket, pants, and belt). Training in it feels a little slower and more technical, because your opponent can grab your sleeves, collar, and pants.

• Great for building solid fundamentals
• Helps you develop patience and precision
• Builds grip strength (your forearms will thank you later!)

Training No-Gi

No-Gi is done in shorts and a rash guard, so there’s no fabric to hold on to. The pace is faster, the movements are slicker, and it often feels closer to real-world self-defense or MMA-style training.

• Perfect if you love a fast, athletic style of grappling
• Sharpens speed and reaction time
• Focuses more on body control and wrestling skills
• So… Which One’s Better?
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Here’s the good news: you don’t have to pick just one. At our Southport Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy, beginners often start with the Gi to build strong basics, then add No-Gi to round out their skills. Training in both makes you a more well-rounded grappler.

The bottom line: whether you choose Gi or No-Gi BJJ on the Gold Coast, you’ll get fitter, stronger, and sharper — on and off the mats. The best choice is simply getting started.