Why Train No-Gi?
Three reasons No-Gi has become the fastest-growing format in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Without grips on a kimono, the pace climbs and scrambles dominate. You build explosive movement, sharper transitions, and real grappling conditioning.
Real fights and real attacks don't happen in a uniform. No-Gi grappling translates directly to MMA, wrestling, and street self-defense — the techniques work in shorts and a t-shirt.
Modern No-Gi is the home of leg locks, body locks, and the highest-percentage submissions in grappling. Train the techniques shaping the sport at the ADCC and IBJJF level today.
What Is No-Gi Jiu Jitsu?
No-Gi Jiu Jitsu is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu trained without the traditional kimono (gi). Instead of grabbing collars and sleeves, you control your opponent through underhooks, body locks, head ties, and pressure and you finish with chokes, joint locks, and the leg-lock systems that now dominate modern submission grappling. The pace is faster, the scrambles are wilder, and the techniques carry directly into MMA, wrestling, and real-world self-defense.
Whether you’re brand new, cross-training from wrestling or MMA, or preparing for ADCC trials, you’ll train in a structured, technical, and welcoming environment.
Why Train No-Gi at Caveirinha Jiu Jitsu Family
Led by an IBJJF World Champion. Prof. Maycon Carvalho built his career at the highest levels of competition Jiu Jitsu.
Modern curriculum, not stuck in the 90s. Our No-Gi program teaches the systems shaping today’s ADCC and IBJJF podiums.
We teach the full leg-lock game responsibly, clear tapping protocols, controlled pace, and rotation-aware drilling so you can train hard for decades.
Our mats are clean, the room is welcoming, and the higher belts genuinely help newer students.
Walk-in friendly, Santa Monica location. Right on Wilshire Blvd, easy parking, steps from the beach.
Real results, kind culture
Hear how our families describe their children’s transformation on and off the mats. Parents love the confidence, discipline, and joy their kids gain at Caveirinha Jiu Jitsu Family Santa Monica.
No-Gi Jiu Jitsu Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Gi and No-Gi Jiu Jitsu?
The main difference is the uniform. In Gi (kimono) Jiu Jitsu, you grip your opponent’s collar, sleeves, and pants to control them. In No-Gi, you train in a rash guard and shorts, control comes from underhooks, head ties, body locks, and direct grips on wrists, ankles, and necks. No-Gi tends to be faster-paced, more scramble-heavy, and more directly applicable to MMA, wrestling, and self-defense. Both share the same core positions and submissions, and most serious grapplers train both.
Do I need any experience to start No-Gi?
Not at all. Our Fundamentals No-Gi classes are designed for total beginner, including people who’ve never done any martial art before. You’ll learn the basics in a structured, drill-focused format and build live experience gradually. Many of our students cross over from wrestling, judo, or MMA, but plenty start with zero background. We’ve taught complete beginners through their first competition wins.
Is No-Gi better than Gi for MMA?
Yes, in the sense that No-Gi reflects what fighters wear in the cage, no fabric to grip, more emphasis on body control, wrestling, and scrambling. That’s why most MMA gyms run No-Gi as their primary grappling format. That said, training the Gi builds patience, defense, and grip strength that translate back into No-Gi, which is why elite competitors like Gordon Ryan and the entire ADCC scene still train both. If your only goal is MMA, lean No-Gi. If you want to be a complete grappler, train both.
What should I wear to a No-Gi class?
A rash guard (short or long sleeve) and grappling shorts or spats. For your first free trial, athletic shorts and a tight-fitting t-shirt are completely fine, no need to buy anything before you’ve tried a class. Cotton tees, jewelry, and shoes are not allowed on the mats for hygiene and safety. We can recommend gear at every price point once you decide to join.
Are leg locks safe to train?
Yes. When taught responsibly. Our coaches teach leg locks with a clear, progressive system: positional drilling first, controlled rolling next, then live application with strict tapping protocols. Heel hooks in particular are taught with rotation-awareness so injuries are extremely rare. The reason leg locks have a reputation for being dangerous is that they were historically banned, so people learned them on YouTube without coaching. We coach them properly from day one.
How often should I train No-Gi to see real progress?
Two to three classes per week is the sweet spot for new students — enough volume to build muscle memory without burning out. Three to four sessions per week will move you noticeably faster. Competitors typically train five or more, mixing classes, open mat, and conditioning. Consistency over months matters far more than intensity in any single week.
Step On The Mats This Week
Your first No-Gi class at Caveirinha Jiu Jitsu Family is free. No contracts, no pressure, just great grappling in the heart of Santa Monica.