If you've made it this far, it's because at some point you've wondered what the difference is between Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Grappling . Maybe you're just starting out in martial arts and don't know which to choose, or maybe you're already training and want to understand a little more in order to improve.
Whatever your case, in this article we are going to clear up all your doubts. We are going to talk about what makes BJJ unique, what is special about Grappling , and what may be the best option for you based on your goals.
Both styles are forms of non-striking fighting, but with key differences in techniques, rules and equipment.
Now, you might be wondering:
🤔 Which one is best for me?
🤔 Which one best suits my goals?
🤔 If I start with one, will I be able to do the other later?
We are going to provide you with the answers in a clear, straightforward manner, with real information that you can apply in your training.
What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art based on controlling one's opponent through takedowns, positions, and submissions. Its philosophy is to allow a smaller, weaker fighter to defeat a larger opponent using technique and strategy rather than brute force.
✔ It is practiced with a kimono (or "Gi"), which allows grips on the fabric.
✔ It focuses a lot on strategy and control of the opponent before ending the fight.
✔ It has a belt system that represents the fighter's progress. (white, blue, purple, brown and black)
✔ The competition is held under rules that prioritize control and submission.
If you like precision, strategy and a style that rewards technical detail, BJJ may be a good choice for you.
What is Grappling?
Grappling is practiced instead of cloth holds, body holds, pressure control and more explosive transitions are used.
Grappling (No-Gi) Features:
✔ No kimono is used, only rashguard and shorts.
✔ Combat is faster and more dynamic.
✔ Techniques such as wrestling become key.
✔ It is the most used style in MMA.
If you want a more physical and explosive style, or if you are interested in competing in MMA in the future, this is your best option .
Main differences between BJJ and Grappling
| Feature | BJJ (with Kimono) 🥋 | Grappling (No-Gi) 🔥 |
|---|---|---|
| Uniform | Kimono (Gi) is used | Rashguard and shorts, without kimono |
| Grips | Grabbing the fabric of the kimono is permitted. | Only direct body grabs |
| Combat Rhythm | More leisurely and strategic | Faster and more explosive |
| Application in MMA | Less common in its traditional form | Highly applicable in MMA |
| Demolitions | Judo takedowns and sweeping techniques are used | More influence from Olympic wrestling and wrestling |
| Submissions | More options thanks to the use of the Gi (cloth chokes, etc.) | Greater emphasis on leg locks and quick submissions |
| Friction | Kimono fabric makes the grips last longer | Without a kimono, there is less friction and more sliding |
| Competencies | IBJJF, CBJJ, AJP Tour | ADCC, Submission Grappling, NAGA |
| Punctuation | Points are awarded for dominant positions and controlled techniques. | Depending on the organization, some rules are more liberal. |
| Emphasis | Control, patience and strategic play | Speed, explosiveness and quick transitions |
Which one should you choose?
Here comes the important part: which one is best for you?
🔹 If you prefer a more strategic, technical combat with a more structured evolution , BJJ with a kimono is the best option.
🔹 If you like speed, intensity and want something more similar to MMA , No-Gi Grappling will give you that experience.
🔹 If you want the best of both worlds , the ideal is to train both styles. Many competitors do this to become more complete.
Now, let's put ourselves in your place...
Imagine you've been training for a few months and you start to notice that your style feels limited or incomplete . Maybe you do a lot of BJJ and feel like you need to improve your explosiveness. Or maybe you do Grappling and you realize that you lack precision in your grips.
The smartest solution is to experiment with both. Variety will make you a more complete fighter!
Let's dig even deeper into these differences with some points you may not have considered:
- The kimono teaches you to control your opponent better, while the No-Gi forces you to react faster.
- In Grappling, the sweat makes opponents slip and makes it difficult to maintain certain grips. In Jiu jitsu, the kimono compensates for this because you can hold the fabric for better control.
- If your goal is to fight in mixed martial arts (MMA), Grappling is more useful, as there are no kimonos in a cage and it is all about body control.
- Kimono fights tend to be slower and more endurance-based, whereas No-Gi requires explosiveness and speed. Your level of fitness may influence which style will be more comfortable for you at first.
- Kimono Jiu-Jitsu rewards patience and tactical thinking. No-Gi, on the other hand, rewards the ability to react quickly. Ask yourself which of these skills you want to develop more.
What will your training team be?
🥋 If you train BJJ in a gi , you'll need a good quality gi that can withstand grappling and wear. It's also advisable to wear rashguards under the gi to prevent chafing.
🥊 If you train Grappling or No-Gi , it is essential to have rashguards, resistant shorts and knee pads , since quick transitions can generate impacts on the knees.
If you want to make sure you train with the best equipment, in our store you can find rashguards, shorts, kimonos and knee pads designed to maximize your performance.
There are some myths...
💭 “Grappling is only for strong people” → ❌ FALSE . There are many techniques that depend more on technique than brute strength.
💭 “BJJ with a kimono is more effective for self-defense” → 🤔 IT DEPENDS . On the street, nobody wears a kimono, but many BJJ techniques can be applied in real situations.
💭 “If I train BJJ in a kimono, I won’t be able to do Grappling” → ❌ INCORRECT . Many athletes combine both disciplines and improve their overall game.
Choose your path
If you still have doubts, here are some tips:
✔ Try both disciplines before making a final decision.
✔ Define your objective: IBJJF Competencies? Kimono. MMA or Submission Grappling? No-Gi.
✔ Get the right gear: A rashguard and shorts in No-Gi, a durable kimono in BJJ.
✔ Learn from the best: Follow athletes from each discipline and analyze their style.
Now tell me, which one do you prefer?
The reality is that both styles have their advantages and disadvantages , and many fighters combine the two to be more complete. If you want a solid foundation and focus on control, BJJ with a kimono is ideal . If you are looking for explosiveness and adaptability to MMA, Grappling is the best option .
-
Follow us on Instagram for more BJJ and Grappling content. Also, visit our store to find the best rashguards, shorts, kimonos and knee pads designed to enhance your training.
📩 Subscribe to our newsletter and receive exclusive promotions every month.
