What to Wear to Jiu Jitsu: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners and Beyond
Stepping onto the mats for your first Jiu Jitsu class can be intimidating. Knowing what to wear can alleviate some of that anxiety. This guide covers everything you need to know about Jiu Jitsu attire, from the essentials to optional extras, ensuring you're comfortable, safe, and ready to roll.
What is the most important piece of clothing to wear to Jiu Jitsu?
The single most important piece of clothing for Jiu Jitsu is a rash guard. Rash guards are snug-fitting, long-sleeved shirts made from a moisture-wicking material. They offer several key benefits:
- Hygiene: They act as a barrier between your skin and the mats, reducing direct skin-to-skin contact and the spread of germs.
- Protection: They protect your skin from mat burn (abrasions) and sweat irritation.
- Comfort: They keep you warm in cooler environments and help wick away sweat, keeping you comfortable during intense training.
While a rash guard is crucial, you'll also need other items. Let's explore them in detail.
What should I wear on my bottom half for Jiu Jitsu?
For your lower body, Jiu Jitsu gis or spats are ideal.
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Gi: A Jiu Jitsu gi is a traditional uniform, a sturdy cotton jacket and pants designed specifically for the sport. It's crucial for practicing many techniques. However, it's important to note that gis can be quite expensive and require special care.
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Spats: Spats are compression shorts or pants, often made of lightweight materials like lycra or spandex. They provide similar hygiene and comfort benefits to a rash guard. They are much more affordable and easier to clean. For beginners or those who train often, these are a more practical choice than a gi. They are also preferable when participating in No-Gi Jiu Jitsu.
Important Consideration: Avoid wearing loose clothing like sweatpants or shorts. These can get caught, creating a safety hazard for you and your training partners.
What kind of shoes should I wear to Jiu Jitsu?
You should not wear shoes on the mats. Jiu Jitsu is practiced barefoot or in socks (although socks are not recommended for hygiene reasons). Shoes can track dirt and grime onto the mats, creating an unsanitary training environment and potentially causing injuries.
What accessories are recommended for Jiu Jitsu training?
Several accessories can enhance your Jiu Jitsu experience:
- Belt: Once you start training, you will receive a belt that indicates your rank.
- Mouthguard: A mouthguard is essential for protecting your teeth from accidental impacts.
- Groin Guard (Cup): This is highly recommended, especially for men, to protect a sensitive area during training.
Can I wear jewelry to Jiu Jitsu?
No. Jewelry should be removed before stepping onto the mats. Rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings can cause serious injuries to yourself and your training partners.
What should I NOT wear to Jiu Jitsu?
Avoid wearing:
- Anything loose: Loose clothing can be dangerous and hinder your performance.
- Jewelry: As mentioned earlier, it poses a significant safety risk.
- Shoes: Keep the mats clean and safe by going barefoot.
- Cotton underwear (Under the gi): Cotton holds sweat and can cause chafing. Opt for moisture-wicking athletic underwear.
What about No-Gi Jiu Jitsu?
For No-Gi Jiu Jitsu, you'll typically wear only a rash guard and spats or compression shorts. The focus is on grappling without the gi, so a comfortable, well-fitting rash guard and spats are paramount.
By following this guide, you'll be well-prepared for your Jiu Jitsu training, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience on the mats. Remember, hygiene and safety are paramount. Now go forth and roll!
