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No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu

No-Gi strips Jiu-Jitsu down to its rawest form — no grips, no lapels, just technique, timing, and pressure. Great for kids who want a faster-paced session and anyone preparing for competition or cross-training from wrestling.

No-gi training at Gracie Barra Alamo Heights strips away the traditional kimono and focuses on wrestling-based grappling, body locks, and submission techniques that work without grip-dependent setups. Professor Zaza — a 2nd Degree Black Belt with 18 years of mat time — brings competition-tested no-gi instruction to every session, with a curriculum that develops both offensive and defensive skills at every level.

Training without the gi changes the game in fundamental ways. Without collar and sleeve grips, you rely on underhooks, overhooks, and precise body positioning. The pace is faster, transitions happen more quickly, and your ability to control an opponent depends entirely on technique and timing rather than fabric. This makes no-gi training especially relevant for real-world self-defense situations and for practitioners who want a complete grappling education.

No-gi sessions are offered for both adults and kids throughout the weekly schedule. Whether you are an experienced gi practitioner looking to round out your game, someone drawn to the faster pace of submission grappling, or a beginner who prefers training in athletic clothing before committing to a gi, these classes will sharpen your overall skillset.

You will train in a rash guard and grappling shorts — or regular athletic clothing for your first session. The Alamo Heights school is equipped with premium mats and a training environment built for the pace no-gi demands. Call (210) 864-7909 to get started with a free trial.

Why Train No-Gi?

  • Develops a well-rounded grappling game that does not depend on gi grips or fabric manipulation
  • Faster pace and scramble-heavy training that builds reflexes, timing, and cardiovascular conditioning
  • Directly applicable to real-world self-defense — real confrontations do not happen in kimonos
  • Strengthens wrestling fundamentals including takedowns, clinch work, and body control from every position
  • Complements gi training by exposing and correcting gaps in your positional game and transitions
  • Preparation for no-gi and submission grappling competitions at local, regional, and IBJJF levels

No-Gi Schedule

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 1 class
5:30 PM
Kids No-Gi (Ages 7-12)
No-Gi
Thursday Closed
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Book a Class

Frequently Asked Questions

What is no-gi Jiu-Jitsu and how is it different from gi training?
In no-gi Jiu-Jitsu, you train without the traditional kimono. Instead of gripping collars and sleeves, you use underhooks, overhooks, and body locks to control your opponent. The pace is typically faster, transitions happen more quickly, and techniques rely on body positioning rather than fabric. At Gracie Barra Alamo Heights, no-gi sessions complement the gi curriculum by exposing different aspects of grappling and building a more complete skill set.
When are no-gi classes at Gracie Barra Alamo Heights?
Gracie Barra Alamo Heights offers adult and kids no-gi classes on multiple days throughout the week. Check our schedule page or call (210) 864-7909 for the most current class times and days.
Do I need to train in the gi before trying no-gi?
Not necessarily. Some people start with no-gi and add gi training later, while others do the opposite. At Gracie Barra Alamo Heights, Professor Zaza recommends training both if your schedule allows, because each style strengthens different parts of your game. That said, if no-gi is what interests you, you are welcome to start there. The fundamentals of positioning and control apply to both.
What should I wear to a no-gi class?
A rash guard and grappling shorts are standard. If you do not own those yet, a fitted t-shirt and athletic shorts without pockets or zippers will work for your first session at Gracie Barra Alamo Heights. Avoid loose clothing that can catch fingers or toes. The front desk can help you order proper no-gi gear once you decide to continue training.
Is no-gi better for self-defense than gi training?
Both have value, but no-gi more closely resembles a real-world confrontation where neither person is wearing a heavy jacket or uniform. The wrestling-based clinch work, body locks, and takedowns taught in no-gi sessions at Gracie Barra Alamo Heights translate directly to self-defense scenarios. Professor Zaza emphasizes practical application in every class. Many students train both gi and no-gi to build the most complete set of skills.

Ready To Get Started?

Your first class is free. No experience needed.

Reserve My Free Class Now

Questions? Call us at (210) 864-7909