What is submission wrestling?

Submission wrestling is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu without the Gi. It is also called No-Gi BJJ, No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu or submission grappling, and in Finnish lukkopaini. There are no strikes or kicks. Training covers takedowns, positional control on the mat and submissions, meaning chokes and joint locks. In everyday club use, submission wrestling and No-Gi BJJ mean the same thing.

How does it differ from Gi BJJ?

The basic positions (guard, side control, mount and back control) and most submissions are the same. The differences come from the gear and the grips.

• No fabric grips: in the Gi you control your partner by the collar, sleeves and pant legs. In No-Gi you may not grab clothing.
• Body grips and pace: control comes from grips on the arms, neck and body. Situations change faster.
• Easy to start: you do not need to buy a Gi.

For a closer comparison, read Gi or No-Gi for beginners. At AOGG the same membership includes both No-Gi and Gi classes at all three academies. Prices are on the pricing page.

What gear do you need?

• On the beginner course and in your first classes: a t-shirt and shorts or sweatpants. Clothing must not have zippers, buttons or pockets where fingers or toes could get caught.
• Later: a rashguard and No-Gi shorts, and if you like, spats and a mouthguard.

Gear prices and first-year costs are covered in How much does BJJ cost in Helsinki?

Safety and academy rules

The basics are learned step by step with an instructor, and the same rules apply in every class. Because there are no strikes or kicks, you can spar without impact. In sparring, either partner can stop at any moment by tapping.

Sparring etiquette, hygiene and prohibited techniques are covered in the academy rules.

How to start at AOGG

No-Gi is trained at all three AOGG academies.

1. Beginner course (Erottaja and Sörnäinen): the course is No-Gi. 6 weeks, 12 sessions, 95 €. Dates and sign-up are on the beginner course page.
2. Start any time (Kivenlahti): at the Kivenlahti academy in Hybridiareena HYPE you can start directly in the All Levels classes.
3. Already trained before: come straight to the No-Gi classes. Your first trial class is free: book a trial class.

New to the whole sport? Read the guide What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)?