No-Gi Grappling, Explained
No-gi is Brazilian jiu-jitsu without the traditional kimono. Instead of grabbing collars and sleeves, you control your partner with your body: underhooks, overhooks, wrist control and head position. It tends to feel faster and more athletic, and it looks a lot like what you would deal with in everyday clothes. Find class times and coaches on our BJJ Arlington Heights page.
Many students train both gi and no-gi. Each one makes you better at the other.
Who Trains No-Gi in Arlington Heights
Our adult no-gi classes are for students with some mat time, and kids ages 7 to 11 get their own no-gi class on Saturday morning.
- Gi students who want to round out their game
- Wrestlers and other grapplers who like a faster pace
- Fundamentals students ready for the next challenge
- Anyone who wants practical self-defense in regular clothes
Inside a No-Gi Class
Every class runs one hour. You warm up with movement drills, then your coach teaches a technique in clear steps, such as a takedown, a pass or a leg-entangle escape. You drill it with a partner, then try it in positional rounds. Most classes finish with live rolling at a level that matches the room, and coaches keep an eye on every pair.
Because there is no gi to slow things down, no-gi teaches you to stay tight, keep good posture and think a step ahead. Those habits carry straight back into gi training.
Advanced no-gi runs Thursday from 6:30 to 7:30 PM and Saturday from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Kids Class 2 (ages 7 to 11) trains no-gi on Saturday from 10:30 to 11:30 AM. New to grappling? Most adults start in Fundamentals on Monday and Wednesday evenings and add no-gi when the coach says they are ready.
Why Train No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu at Brazil 021 Arlington Heights
Our coaching team brings real no-gi credentials without the attitude. Co-founder Hannette Staack is a 5th-degree black belt, a No-Gi World Champion and a 3x ADCC Champion. Vinicius “Machine” Pereira won the 2021 IBJJF No-Gi Pan American title as a brown belt. Co-founder Andre Terencio is a 6th-degree black belt and longtime IBJJF head referee.
What students notice most is the room itself. It is friendly, partners look after each other and nobody needs to prove anything. Hobbyists, parents and competitors all train side by side.
Many no-gi students also take our gi Fundamentals or All Levels classes during the week. You are welcome to try both and see which one you enjoy more.
Your First No-Gi Class: What to Bring
Your first class is free. Book it, arrive a few minutes early and tell the coach it is your first time. Free trials are for people who live in or near Arlington Heights. Visiting from out of town? That’s a drop-in, not a free trial. We are at 3350 West Salt Creek Ln #117, Arlington Heights, IL 60005.
- A rash guard or fitted athletic shirt
- Shorts without zippers or pockets
- A mouthguard (recommended)
- Water and sandals for walking off the mat
