10/14/2026
🥋 WHY TRAIN IN THE GI?
At Next Level Combat of Pearl, we train both Gi and No-Gi, and there’s a reason for that. Both offer something different, and both help develop a more complete grappler.
Here are 5 benefits of putting on the gi:
💪 1. BUILD STRONGER GRIPS
All that grabbing, pulling, and controlling sleeves, collars, and lapels develops grip strength and endurance. Your hands and forearms are constantly working.
🧠 2. DEVELOP PATIENCE AND TECHNIQUE
The gi gives your opponent more ways to slow you down and control your movement. You have to think, problem-solve, create angles, and use leverage instead of relying on speed or strength alone.
🛡️ 3. BUILD PRACTICAL SELF-DEFENSE SKILLS
People wear clothes in the real world. Learning how to control someone using a jacket, hoodie, or other clothing can be valuable in self-defense situations. Just as importantly, you learn how to deal with someone grabbing yours.
🥋 4. EXPAND YOUR GRAPPLING GAME
Collar chokes, lapel controls, sleeve grips, and countless other techniques give you additional ways to attack, defend, and control your opponent. The gi opens up an entirely different set of problems to solve.
🔥 5. CHALLENGE YOUR CONDITIONING
Training in the gi can be physically demanding. You’re constantly gripping, pulling, moving, and fighting for position. The added friction and resistance challenge your muscular endurance and teach you to stay composed when you’re tired.
But here’s what I appreciate most about training in the gi:
It teaches you to slow down, think through difficult situations, and work toward solutions instead of trying to muscle your way out of everything.
Those lessons go well beyond the mats.
Whether you’re brand new or have been training for years, there’s always something to learn when you put on the gi.
Come train with us at Next Level Combat of Pearl! 🥋
