Wednesday, January 2, 2013

Behind The BJJ Kimono - What You Should Know About Them

By Ricky Bohil


Practitioners of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu are aware of the need to have a specific clothing to identify them. We are referring to the BJJ Kimono, or the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Kimono. When considering where to buy a Kimono or Gi, it's important to know where to buy, the colors permitted for competition and how to find quality Gis. Brazilian JiuJitsu is a style of martial arts which focuses on grappling and ground fighting. The Roots of BJJ can be found in Kosen Judo, a form of Kodokan Judo. Mitsuyo Maeda was instrumental in teaching Kosen judo to Carlos Gracie. Gracie was responsible for adapting the art into his own and thus, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was born.

The Japanese gi has been the precursor or pioneer of the Brazilian jiu jitst kimono. It consists of a heavy cotton jacket and reinforced trousers. Over the jacket is a sash or belt tied around. The belt works two ways: as one that holds the trousers up, and as a rank indicator of the wearer of said Gi and belt. If you notice, participants wear only either blue, white or black. when they are joining competitions, particularly on the international scale. You cannot refute this ruling because it is the International Brazilian JiuJitsu Federation that set it. According to the rules, Article 8 Brazilian JiuJitsu Kimono's must conform to these specs to be used in formal competition: (Taken directly from IBJJF Article 8)

The cloth or fabric used on the gi must be of good quality and in good condition, preferably cotton. The material may not be excessively thick or hard to the point where it will obstruct the opponent. Black, white and blue are the recommended colors for the Gi, but do not mix and match. The jacket should reach down to the thighs, while the sleeves should fall down to the wrist. Sleeve length is prescribed by the IBJJF. Follow the measurements as indicated. Since belts are indicative of one's rank, be mindful of the color you use. It should be approximately 4 to 5 cm in width. Tying the belt around the waist should be accomplished by a simple double knot: tight enough to secure the kimono but loose enough to allow freedom of movement. You should change your belt if it is showing signs of wear and tear.

You would not be allowed to compete if you have a torn kimono, or if the sleeve or pants length do not coincide with the rulings. Painting the gi is a huge no-no. Exceptions can be made for team's competition. BJJ Kimonos - Where To Buy Them The best place to start when considering where to purchase a Kimono or Gi, is your school or Dojo. Oftentimes, the school may sell their gear on site, or have a preferred vendor. You can be assured that you will get quality gear and at a price you can easily afford.

However, online purchases offer the advantage of a better price, and oftentimes no taxes. On the other hand, there are many choices for vendors online and it's difficult to know who sells legitimate, high quality equipment. Seeking advice from people you know, especially those from your own dojo, would be a good idea. Better yet, go directly to the source. The Gracie school itself has a website where you can buy your equipment directly. You will be more confident that they are selling products that they believe in, seeing as they are the pioneers in this field. Without a BJJ kimono, one cannot be referred to as a BJJ practitioner. Therefore, find a kimono that will fit you perfectly. The best way to make a decision is to seek advice from experts. A good place to start may be your BJJ School or Dojo.




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