Stuff my White Belts ask me: “What kind of gi should I buy?”

/in , /by

Common question from a new white belt: “Chewy, what kind of gi should I buy?”

My answer: Early on I think the type of gi you wear matters very little. As a newcomer to BJJ you won’t be able to detect the small differences that exist between the different kimonos out there. You may notice a difference if you get a heavier gi opposed to a lighter one, but that’s about it.

My advice is to find a gi that you find visually appealing, is within your budget and is from a reputable source. Other than that, don’t pay too much attention to the extras.

Although single, summer, pearl weaves and any gi label “light” are going to be a little lighter and cooler, that doesn’t always mean better. I personally, prefer a heavier gi. Don’t be afraid to test it out and see which type you like best.

Pay attention to the sizing chart of that particular company as many gi companies have different sizing for their kimonos.

Before you buy, do a search on youtube or google for a review of the particular gi you intend to purchase and see what you can find. These reviews can be helpful about learning how much the gi shrinks up, fades, fits, etc.

In regards to colors, I personally feel that you should wear whichever gi color you like, but check with your gym. Some academies have rules against colors. Sometimes they even have stigmas around white belts wearing colors like black gis. This isn’t common but its something to keep in mind. In addition, if you plan to compete in IBJJF tournaments, you will be required to wear certain gi colors.

Fun Fact: Many gis are made in the same factories overseas and in some cases, Kimono companies simply copy another competitor’s design and rehash it as something for themselves. So don’t get too worked up about the special features on your new gi. Focus on finding something that you will be pumped about wearing when you step on the mat.

If you’re new to BJJ and had this question, I hope this blog helped you. If you still have any questions, consult your instructor or send me an email and I’d be happy to assist. 🙂

As always,

Thanks for reading!

—Chewy

BJJ Black Belt using EFO techniques on his students

/in /by

What happens when you put EFO techniques into the hands of a BJJ Black Belt? Watch and see.

Podcast interview with Atos Black Belt Tim Sledd

/in /by

Podcast interview with Atos Black Belt Tim Sledd

A little interview I did with Tim Sledd. Tim is a solid teacher (i’ve learned plenty from him), was my first purple belt match, and was a blast to talk with. Well I guess I drilled him with questions more than casual talking. He talks about a couple of the personal struggles in particular that hes dealt with in BJJ, that I’ve also dealt with. It was cool to hear another BJJ lifer’s take on dealing with things like ,affiliation changes, and figuring out question, “why do I keep training?’  

Its worth a listen if you have some time.

A cool moment in my BJJ career

/in /by

Image

Its weird to call it a career, but I guess at 10+ years and performing it as a full time gig makes it a career. Above is a photo taken from earlier this year and was one of the coolest moments I’ve ever had as a teacher. This was a night when we were doing a promotion and we assembled a solid group of guys together for it. The total count that night was 55 which is not the largest group I’ve ever had on the mat but it is in the top 10. I’m not sure if you’ve ever been in this situation, but the energy in a group like this is incredible.

I guess the reason I enjoy the photo so much is that its a reminder that I don’t have to be a sleazy marketer, world champion, instructor who gives out belts too quickly or whatever I think I “need” to be, in order to be successful. Instead, I just need to be myself and remain a dedicated friend, instructor and training partner. Ready to jump on the mats and mix it up with my students, ready to do whatever is required in order to help them achieve their goals. 

Just for the record, my students are awesome!