Guest Post for: https://tkdlifemagazine.com
Does Your BJJ Gi Color Mean Anything?
You must have seen BJJ gis from different brands in a variety of color options. However, the question arises: Does the color of your BJJ gi mean anything?
Table of Contents
The straightforward answer to the question: “Does Your Bjj Gi Color Mean Anything?” is “No”. The color of your BJJ gi doesn’t signify any particular rank, nor does it have a specific meaning. However, the BJJ gi belt signifies the rank and skill level.
Traditionally, you will only find the very common white BJJ gi, Blue gi, and black gi. These gi colors are considered the standard and competition-approved colors as listed in the IBJJF rules.
As of today, many BJJ gi colors have been introduced to the market, and, to be honest, most of them look very cool and attractive. Imagine a BJJ practitioner entering the ring in an orange BJJ gi; they will definitely stand out from the rest.
Choosing which color BJJ gi to wear to the gym or for your personal training depends on your preferences. However, there are certain key considerations for BJJ gi colors that you must follow:
1. Where BJJ Gi Color Matters
1.1 Academy Rules
It may not be hard and fast, but some Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies only allow a specific color BJJ gi. You must confirm this with your academy’s instructor whether there is a gi color code. Some academies only allow the students to wear white BJJ gis. However, the instructor may use another color to create a distinction. Some BJJ gyms may have a policy requiring a specific color gi based on rank.
1.2 BJJ Competition
If you are a professional BJJ player competing at a higher level, you probably know which gi colors are allowed. IBJJF only allows White, Royal Blue, or Black BJJ gis in tournaments. Any other fancy-colored BJJ gis are prohibited in official competitions or tournaments.
1.3 Martial Arts Type
The color of the BJJ gi may also vary depending on the martial art we are referring to. For example, in Judo, only white and blue gis are standard in official matches. Meanwhile, black gis are not allowed in traditional Judo settings.
2. Common BJJ Gi Colors and Their Perception
As said, a specific BJJ gi color doesn’t particularly mean something special. However, unofficially, a certain gi color may be perceived in a way. Let’s discuss some of the most common gi colors and how they are perceived in BJJ.
2.1 White BJJ Gi
The white gi in BJJ is the most traditional, as it originated in Judo. To some people, it may mean ‘peace’. However, in the true BJJ sense, it signifies a clean slate, humility, and purity for beginner BJJ practitioners. Some BJJ academies only prefer white BJJ gi for students.
2.2 Blue BJJ Gi
The blue gi was introduced in BJJ for a reason. It was used to help BJJ referees distinguish the competitors in BJJ matches. Blue gi isn’t uncommon in BJJ. It is widely accepted as an official BJJ color and is used in professional-level BJJ tournaments. Above all, it is better than a white gi because it doesn’t get dirty quickly. Also, it is good at hiding sweat and stains.
2.3 Black BJJ Gi
Black gi is specially used in BJJ to distinguish the higher ranks. It symbolizes power, experience, and style. Some BJJ gyms only allow the instructors or higher-level belt holders to wear the black gi.
3. Last Words
If your BJJ gym or academy doesn’t require you to wear a specific color gi, you have several shocking color options to choose from. Nowadays, you will even find BJJ gis with various designs and patterns. Just name a color, and you will find the same colored BJJ gi. Also, if you plan to compete in IBJJF tournaments, you must use only the approved colors.
