Why its important UFC fighters train in the gi
by: Joseph Ninomiya

Long Island MMA in the gi

For some time the question has been being asked as to the relevance of the gi in training for mixed martial arts competition. The gi is a traditional component of training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and this has lead many fighters to ask, “If I am not competing in Jiu Jitsu, what does the gi have to offer me”? Failure to adequately answer this question causes most competitors to abandon their use of the gi. However, for those who have much experience in the gi, the benefits of its use are apparent.

Yes, it is true that in mixed martial arts competition fighters do not wear a gi. When grappling for MMA it would seem that training no-gi would be far more beneficial due to its likeness to a fight scenario. Although, while training no-gi is similar, training in the gi offers benefits that are far superior to similarity. Why is the gi so important in MMA as well as Jiu Jitsu? Aside from the techniques that are exclusive to the gi, utilizing the gi instills a certain mentality of how to approach Jiu Jitsu. The significantly larger amounts of grips that can be made using the gi change the dynamic of the match taking place. One may be able to slide out of, or “power out” of a number of submissions in a no-gi or MMA fight. However, when wearing the gi the extra traction of the fabric as well as the additional grips force the competitor to seek out other solutions; more technical solutions.

Sometimes when training without the gi it is certainly possible for one to take “short cuts” so to speak. The gi however, does not allow this to take place when it is utilized correctly. Therefore because you must take every small detail of the technique into account while training in the gi, the theory is that this meticulousness will benefit the way one rolls without their gi. This belief is shared by some of the sport’s top athletes. Some of these fighters include Jiu Jitsu black belt and UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo, Jiu Jitsu black belt and former UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson, as well as Long Island MMA fighter and lightweight prospect Chris Wade who is a blue belt.

The benefits of training in the gi are evident to all those who utilize it. The only thing left for those whom are skeptical is to try it themselves. The benefits of the gi are real and will improve your Jiu Jitsu skills both on the matt as well as in the cage!