What Is No-Gi Jiu Jitsu? A Beginner’s Guide to Training in Cairns

If you’re searching for No-Gi Jiu Jitsu in Cairns, chances are you’re looking for a martial art that builds real confidence, practical self-defense skills, and full-body fitness, without needing prior experience. No-Gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has quickly become one of the most popular grappling styles worldwide, and here in Cairns, more people are discovering its benefits through training at Pretty Top Team.

This beginner’s guide will walk you through exactly what No-Gi Jiu Jitsu is, how it differs from traditional BJJ, what you’ll learn in class, and why Pretty Top Team is a leading place to train No-Gi Jiu Jitsu in Cairns.

What Is No-Gi Jiu Jitsu?

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu is a form of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) practiced without the traditional gi (kimono). Instead of gripping clothing, students wear rash guards and shorts and rely on body positioning, balance, pressure, and technique to control an opponent and apply submissions.

The absence of the gi makes No-Gi:

• Faster paced

• More fluid and athletic

• Less reliant on clothing grips

• Highly adaptable to real-world situations

At Pretty Top Team, all Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes are No-Gi only, allowing students to fully develop these skills in a focused and consistent training environment.

Where No-Gi Jiu Jitsu Comes From

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu originated from Kodokan Judo, which was introduced to Brazil in the early 1900s by Japanese judoka Mitsuyo Maeda. One of his students, Carlos Gracie, refined the techniques and philosophy, emphasizing leverage, efficiency, and ground fighting.

Over time, BJJ evolved into both a martial art and a combat sport. While the gi remained traditional, No-Gi training naturally developed as practitioners explored grappling without relying on clothing grips. Today, No-Gi Jiu Jitsu is a core component of modern grappling, MMA, and self-defense training.

No-Gi vs Gi Jiu Jitsu: What’s the Difference?

One of the most common questions beginners ask is the difference between Gi and No-Gi Jiu Jitsu.

Gi Jiu Jitsu

• Traditional uniform (gi)

• Heavy use of sleeve, collar, and pant grips

• Slower, more methodical pace

• Strong emphasis on grip control

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu

• Rash guard and shorts

• No clothing grips

• Faster pace and more movement

• Greater focus on wrestling, balance, and body control

• More realistic for self-defense scenarios

Because No-Gi doesn’t rely on clothing, it teaches students how to control an opponent using pure technique, a key reason Pretty Top Team specializes in No-Gi training.

Why Train No-Gi Jiu Jitsu?

Training No-Gi Jiu Jitsu offers benefits that go far beyond learning a martial art.

People train No-Gi Jiu Jitsu to:

• Improve overall fitness

• Learn realistic self-defense skills

• Build confidence and mental resilience

• Develop coordination, balance, and strength

• Challenge themselves in a supportive environment

For many in Cairns, No-Gi Jiu Jitsu becomes a long-term lifestyle rather than just a workout.

What You Learn in No-Gi Jiu Jitsu Classes

At Pretty Top Team, No-Gi Jiu Jitsu classes are structured to build strong fundamentals first, then layer in more advanced techniques over time.

You’ll learn:

• Proper body movement and positioning

• Takedowns and takedown defense

• Controlling positions such as side control and mount

• Escapes from difficult positions

• Submissions including chokes and joint locks

• How to spar (roll) safely and intelligently

Every class combines technical instruction, drilling, and live training, ensuring steady progress regardless of experience level.

What to Expect in Your First No-Gi Class

Starting something new can feel intimidating, but No-Gi Jiu Jitsu classes at Pretty Top Team are designed to be beginner-friendly.

In your first class, you can expect:

• A welcoming and respectful environment

• Clear instruction from experienced coaches

• Partner drills with guidance and supervision

• A focus on safety and learning, not ego

There’s no pressure to perform, beginners are encouraged to learn at their own pace.

What to Wear and Bring to No-Gi Jiu Jitsu

You don’t need much to get started.

For No-Gi Jiu Jitsu, bring:

• Shorts or tights (no pockets or zips)

• Rash guard or tight-fitted t-shirt

• Towel

• Water bottle

Training is done barefoot on the mats. If you don’t yet own No-Gi gear, fitted sportswear is perfectly fine for beginners.

Who Can Train No-Gi Jiu Jitsu?

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu is truly for everyone.

You can train if you are:

• A complete beginner

• New to fitness or returning after time off

• Young or older

• Smaller or larger in size

Because the art focuses on technique, leverage, and timing rather than strength, anyone can learn and progress with consistent training.

Kids No-Gi Jiu Jitsu at Pretty Top Team

Pretty Top Team also offers kids’ No-Gi Jiu Jitsu classes for children aged 8–15 years.

Classes run:

• Tuesday & Thursday

• 5:00pm – 5:45pm

Kids Jiu Jitsu focuses on:

• Confidence and self-esteem

• Coordination and balance

• Discipline and respect

• Age-appropriate self-defense skills

Classes are safe, structured, and fun, helping kids grow both physically and mentally.

Physical and Mental Benefits of No-Gi Jiu Jitsu

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu delivers a wide range of benefits beyond the mats.

Physical Benefits

• Full-body strength and conditioning

• Improved mobility and flexibility

• Better cardiovascular health

• Increased coordination and balance

Mental Benefits

• Improved focus and problem-solving

• Stress relief

• Mental resilience

• Confidence in challenging situations

Training regularly builds both physical capability and mental toughness.

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu for Self-Defense

One of the biggest advantages of No-Gi Jiu Jitsu is its real-world applicability.

Because No-Gi does not rely on clothing grips, students learn:

• How to control opponents using body mechanics

• How to escape from dangerous positions

• How to remain calm under pressure

These skills translate directly to  self-defense situations, making No-Gi Jiu Jitsu a practical choice for everyday people.

Meet the Coaches at Pretty Top Team

High-quality coaching is essential to safe and effective training.

Samir Zarrouki

Samir began his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey in Canada and is a highly technical brown belt. He is also a qualified physiotherapist, giving him a unique ability to teach:

• Efficient movement

• Injury prevention

• Long-term training sustainability

His calm, detailed coaching style is ideal for beginners.

Adil Salhi

Adil hails from France and is a 5x French National Champion. His competitive experience brings:

• High-level No-Gi strategies

• Modern grappling techniques

• Motivating and structured instruction

Together, Samir and Adil provide world-class No-Gi Jiu Jitsu coaching in Cairns.

Class Schedule and Training Flexibility

Pretty Top Team offers six grappling classes per week, making it easy to fit training around work, school, or family life.

You can start at any time, there are no set intakes or experience requirements.

Free Trial Classes

Not sure if No-Gi Jiu Jitsu is right for you? Pretty Top Team offers free trial classes so you can:

• Try a class with no commitment

• Meet the coaches

• Experience the gym culture

It’s the easiest way to get started.

How Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Grading Works

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu uses a belt system:

• White

• Blue

• Purple

• Brown

• Black

Everyone starts at white belt, and progression is based on skill, consistency, and understanding rather than strength or athleticism.

Why Choose Pretty Top Team for No-Gi Jiu Jitsu in Cairns?

Pretty Top Team stands out for:

• Dedicated No-Gi only Jiu Jitsu program

• Internationally experienced brown belt coaches

• Beginner-friendly classes

• Kids and adult programs

• Supportive, community-driven environment

• Trusted martial arts gym in Cairns

Final Thoughts

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu is more than just training, it’s a powerful way to build confidence, fitness, and real-world skills.

If you’re looking for No-Gi Jiu Jitsu in Cairns, Pretty Top Team offers expert coaching, a welcoming atmosphere, and a clear pathway for beginners to grow and succeed.

Ready to give it a try? Join Pretty Top Team and experience No-Gi Jiu Jitsu for yourself.

BOOK FREE TRIAL NOW!