Last week, I found myself explaining to my wife why I needed to buy yet another gi. “But didn’t you just order those spandex shorts for no-gi?” she asked, eyebrow raised. And there I was, caught in the eternal debate that every BJJ practitioner faces – gi or no-gi? But for us distinguished grapplers (that’s PR speak for “old”), this choice carries extra weight. Literally and figuratively.
Let’s break down this gi vs. no-gi conundrum for the over-40 crowd, shall we? And don’t worry – I promise this won’t be another young buck telling you to “just train both, bro” without considering that some of us need a little more recovery time between getting crushed by the local competition team.
The Case for Gi Training: Embrace the Pajama Game
Remember when you could bounce right back after training? Yeah, me neither. But here’s where gi training might be your new best friend.
First off, gi training typically runs at a slower pace. Those grips naturally create pauses in the action, giving you precious microseconds to catch your breath and contemplate your life choices. It’s like having built-in rest periods without looking like you’re stalling (which you totally are, and that’s okay).
The grip-based game also plays perfectly into our “old man strength” and decades of accumulated craftiness. You know those young athletes who rely on explosive movements and athletic ability? Watch their faces drop when you lock them down with old-school pressure and methodical grip sequences. There’s something deeply satisfying about controlling someone using their own clothing while barely moving.
Plus, let’s be honest – the gi can hide that dad bod better than any rashguard ever will. Not that we care about such things, right? (nervously adjusts gi jacket)
The No-Gi Truth: Speed, Simplicity, and Fewer Loads of Laundry
Now, before you commit fully to the cloth, let’s talk about no-gi. Remember those finger joints that creak like an old wooden staircase after grip fighting? No-gi eliminates that issue entirely. No grips means no grip stress – it’s simple math, folks.
The simplified technique selection in no-gi can also be a blessing. Instead of mastering seventeen different collar chokes, you’re working with a more streamlined arsenal. It’s like going from a Swiss Army knife to a sturdy fixed blade – fewer options, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need.
And let’s not forget the practical benefits: less laundry (your spouse will thank you), no more gi burn on your face, and significantly reduced risk of someone using your own clothing as a torture device. Plus, in no-gi, no one can tell if you forgot to iron your gi or accidentally bought the wrong size pants. These things matter when you’re trying to maintain your dignity at 45.
Impact on Your Aging Body: The Real Talk
Here’s where we need to get serious for a moment. Our bodies aren’t as forgiving as they used to be, and recovery isn’t optional anymore – it’s a necessity.
Gi training can be harder on your fingers and grip strength, but it often allows for a more controlled pace. The trade-off is that no-gi might spare your digits, but it typically demands more explosive movement and quick transitions. It’s like choosing between a slow burn and short sprints – neither is objectively better, but your body probably has a preference.
Temperature regulation is another factor our younger counterparts rarely consider. Gi training in summer can feel like hot yoga with someone trying to choke you. Meanwhile, no-gi might keep you cooler, but you lose that nice cloth barrier between you and your training partner’s sweat. Choose your poison.
The Hybrid Approach: Because Who Says You Can’t Have It All?
After years of experimenting (and numerous ice packs), I’ve found that a hybrid approach often works best for us seasoned grapplers. Here’s my “3-2-1” method that’s kept me on the mats without falling apart:
3 gi sessions when weather permits (preferably in cooler months)
2 no-gi sessions for keeping up with the modern game
1 day dedicated purely to recovery (non-negotiable)
This approach lets you develop both games while giving your body the variety and recovery it needs. It’s like cross-training for your grappling – different stimuli, different stresses, better overall development.
Making Your Choice: The Gray Bush Decision Guide
Still unsure? Ask yourself these questions:
- Do your fingers feel like they’ve been slammed in a car door after training? Maybe lean toward no-gi.
- Does the thought of fast-paced scrambles make your lower back twinge? Gi might be your friend.
- Are you training purely for self-defense? Consider favoring no-gi.
- Do you enjoy the technical complexity and traditional aspects? Gi could be your path.
- Is your air conditioning bill already too high? No-gi in summer, gi in winter.
The Bottom Line
Here’s the truth – both styles have their place in the over-40 grappler’s journey. The key isn’t choosing one over the other permanently; it’s finding the right balance for your body, goals, and recovery needs.
Remember, we’re playing the long game here. The goal isn’t to be the toughest guy in the gym today; it’s to be the craftiest old timer still hitting sweeps and submissions a decade from now.
Whether you choose gi, no-gi, or both, the most important thing is that you’re still on the mats. That alone puts you ahead of 99% of our age group who are sitting on the couch wondering if they’re too old to start.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go explain to my wife why I just ordered both a new gi AND no-gi gear. Wish me luck.
Have you found your perfect balance between gi and no-gi training? Drop a comment below and share your experiences. And remember – old guys rule, we just need a little more ice afterward.