At Greenwood Jiu Jitsu Toronto, we’re always looking for ways to help your child grow stronger, more confident, and better prepared—not just for the mats, but for real life.
That’s why, starting this summer, our kids’ Jiu Jitsu classes will transition to no-gi training, with the exception of our Fight Class, which will continue in the gi.
Here’s what this means, why we’re making this change, and how it benefits your child—especially when it comes to self-defense and real-world awareness.
🥋 What’s the Difference Between Gi and No-Gi?
- Gi Jiu Jitsu uses the traditional kimono (gi), where students can grip the jacket, sleeves, and pants to control or submit an opponent.
- No-Gi Jiu Jitsu is practiced in shorts and a rash guard. It’s faster-paced and relies more on body control and leverage rather than gripping clothing.
👦 Why No-Gi for Kids This Summer?
1. Build Functional Self-Defense Skills
In real-life situations—whether it’s on a playground or at a park—your child likely won’t be facing someone wearing a gi. Training without the uniform builds instincts that don’t rely on grabbing clothing. This makes techniques more adaptable and realistic for self-defense.
2. Prevent Over-Dependence on the Gi
While gi training is valuable and teaches control, it can also create habits like relying too much on sleeves or collars for submissions or escapes. No-gi forces kids to develop better positioning, framing, and movement.
3. Stay Cool and Comfortable
Summer training can get hot! No-gi uniforms (rash guards and shorts) are cooler, lighter, and more breathable—keeping kids comfortable and focused during class.
🥊 What About Fight Class?
Our Fight Class will remain in the gi throughout the summer. This class is more advanced and often involves tournament-style training, where wearing the gi is still important for competition preparation and discipline.
✅ How This Helps Your Child Grow as a Martial Artist
Switching to no-gi doesn’t just make kids better grapplers—it makes them more well-rounded, more adaptable, and more confident in unfamiliar situations.
They’ll learn:
- How to control an opponent without relying on grips
- How to move more athletically and react faster
- How to defend themselves in everyday clothing
At Greenwood Jiu Jitsu, we believe training smart is just as important as training hard. No-gi training helps develop the kind of awareness and flexibility that transfers beyond the mat—into school, life, and real-world situations.
👊 Ready to Train This Summer?
If your child is already training with us, just make sure they come in with proper no-gi gear:
- Rash guard or tight-fitting athletic top
- Grappling shorts or leggings (no zippers or pockets)
And if your child is new to Jiu Jitsu and looking for a fun, safe, and empowering way to stay active this summer, we’re still offering free trial classes for new students.
📍 Conveniently located in Toronto
🧒 Classes for ages 4 and up
🥋 Experienced coaches, beginner-friendly environment