Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gi

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioner's gi is similar to a judogi (judo uniform), but is a closer fit. As is the case with judo, the term kimono is sometimes used instead.

While the judogi is regulated and inspected by sanctioning bodies so as to maintain a necessary amount of room between the arm and the sleeve for gripping, and also between the leg and the pants, a BJJ practitioner's gi is not as tightly regulated. The practitioner can therefore benefit from a closer fit, providing less material for an opponent to manipulate.

[edit] General regulations

The only colors allowed for international championships are white, black or blue, though is some jurisdictions this is relaxed to allow any single solid colour. In some clubs it is customary for practitioners who are white belts to only wear a white gi, but once a blue belt is obtained they are free to wear any colour.

According to article 8 of International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) rules,[1] a competition gi must conform to these specifications:

  • The gi must be constructed of cotton or similar material and be in good condition. The material may not be excessively thick or hard to the point where it will obstruct the opponent.
  • Colours may be black, white or blue, no combined colors (white kimono with blue pants, etc.)
  • The jacket is to be of sufficient length down to the thighs, sleeves must reach the wrist with arms extended in front of the body. The sleeve should follow the official measurements according to IBJJF (this is measured from the shoulder to the wrist).
  • Belt width must be 4-5cm, with belt colour corresponding to the practitioners rank. The belt must be tied around the waist with a double knot, tight enough to secure the kimono closed.
  • Athletes are not permitted to compete with torn kimonos, sleeves or pants that are not of proper length, or with t-shirts underneath the kimono (except for females).
  • A BJJ practitioner is not allowed to paint his/her gi. Exceptions can be made for teams competition.

[edit] Patches

According to article 13 of IBJFF rules,[1] patches may be placed on the gi in one of thirteen different locations:

On the jacket:

  • Left upper arm
  • Left upper shoulder
  • Front right upper shoulder
  • Front right upper arm
  • Front below the belt
  • Back below the belt
  • Back below the collar and above the belt

On the pants:

  • Above the front left knee
  • Above the front right knee
  • Below the front left knee (with at least 15 cm of space to the floor without patch to allow for grabbing)
  • Below the front right knee (with at least 15 cm of space to the floor without patch to allow for grabbing)
  • Along the back of the left leg
  • Along the back of the right leg

[edit] References

  1. ^ a b International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation rules