Faster pace, modern competition circuits, and no gi required. The fastest-growing side of BJJ.
No-gi moves faster without gi grips. Pace, scrambles, and athleticism play bigger roles than in gi BJJ.
ADCC, Polaris, and the IBJJF no-gi circuit offer major platforms for no-gi competitors at every level.
Just shorts and a rashguard. No expensive gi to wash or maintain between sessions.
No-gi does not have an official belt system. Most academies use gi belt ranks for no-gi as well, though pure no-gi athletes sometimes reference their skill level instead.
| Belt | Min. Time at Previous Belt | Min. Age |
|---|---|---|
| White | — | 4 |
| Blue | 12 months | 16 |
| Purple | 24 months | 16 |
| Brown | 18 months | 18 |
| Black | 12 months | 19 |
Enter your belt, start date, and session frequency to see where you stand against IBJJF minimums.
Open CalculatorThe BJJ Index combines three data points into one progression score: time in grade, training volume, and consistency. All three matter. Together they tell you exactly where you stand.
How long since your last promotion. The IBJJF-mandated minimum you must meet before your next belt.
Total sessions logged at your current belt. Volume separates progressers from stagnant practitioners.
Your weekly training rhythm. Consistency is the single biggest predictor of long-term progression.
Track every session automatically. See your BJJ Index update after every class.
Download — App StoreYes. No-gi is faster and more athletic, with fewer grip-dependent techniques. The core positional game is the same.
Most academies recommend starting in the gi because it slows the game down and forces technical development.
Most no-gi practitioners use their gi rank. Some pure no-gi athletes use alternative systems or no ranking at all.
Yes, for direct application. No-gi is more MMA-specific because fighters do not wear gis.
ADCC is the premier no-gi submission grappling tournament held every two years. The most prestigious event in submission wrestling.