In many GB Schools round the world, many GB athletes are preparing for the No-Gi Worlds. No-gi submission grappling rules is a competition format that is increasing in popularity world wide.

While most of the principles of jiu-jitsu are shared between gi and no-gi there are some significant differences (especially in grips!) and those jiu-jitsu practitioners looking to have a complete jiu-jitsu should spend some time training no-gi specific techniques in addition to the regular gi classes.

Let’s take a look at some of the no-gi specific techniques as taught by top Gracie Barra instructors.

Prof. Marcio Feitosa starts in the standing position to show some of the key situations you will encounter in match in the stand up position.

Without the collar grip, many of the traditional Judo takedowns are more difficult and controlling the opponent’s head in front headlock is a more effective strategy. Prof. Flavio Almeida shows his favorite no-gi takedown sequences from front head lock.

Prof. Ricardo Almeida is part of a jiu-jitsu family along with brothers Prof. Flavio and Andre. Prof. Ricardo has considerable no-gi experience having fought MMA in Japan and the UFC.

Taking the back of an experienced opponent is no easy task. They won’t simply make a tactical mistake and give the back. Prof. Nick from Gracie Barra Long Island shows a setup to catch the back from side control.

We don’t often see Guillotine chokes in gi grappling but in no-gi it is one of the most common and potent attacks.

See also on Gracie Barra : Technique Combinations

Credits: Mark Mullen

Gracie Barra Black belt based in Asia

Instagram: markmullen.bjj