Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Southampton
Gi jiu-jitsu is the traditional form of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, trained in a heavy cotton jacket and trousers, the gi. Grips on the cloth make the game slower, more methodical and deeply technical, which is why it’s the classic place to start. At MTHD in Swaythling, Southampton, we’ll lend you a gi for your first classes, so there’s nothing to buy before you know you enjoy it.
What gi training is
The traditional form
Gi jiu-jitsu is trained in the classic jacket and trousers. Grips on the cloth (collars, sleeves and lapels) open up a whole game the no-gi grappler never sees.
Slower and more technical
Those grips slow the pace down, which gives you time to think. The gi rewards precision and problem-solving over athleticism, so it suits patient, methodical learners.
The classic starting point
Most people begin in the gi, and the fundamentals you build there (posture, base, escapes) transfer straight into no-gi and everything else you go on to train.
Built for beginners first
Our Gi Fundamentals classes assume nothing: no experience, no fitness requirement and no kit. You learn a few techniques at a time, drill them with a patient partner, and build the base that everything else stands on. Experienced players and competitors train in the same room, so you always have people to learn from. Here’s exactly what a first class looks like.
We’ll sort the gi
- Nothing at first: we lend you a gi for your early classes
- A clean t-shirt or rashguard to wear underneath
- A water bottle and flip-flops for off the mat
- When you're ready, we'll help you choose a gi of your own
When we train in the gi
Gi classes run through the week alongside no-gi. See the full timetable and published prices, or read about training no-gi if you’d rather start without the jacket.
- Lunchtime Gi Mixed AbilityTuesday 12:00
- Gi Mixed AbilityTuesday 19:30
- Gi FundamentalsNew? Start hereWednesday 18:30
- Gi Mixed AbilityFriday 18:30
Try a gi class on us
Your first class is free and we'll lend you the gi. Book it in under a minute.