Brazilian jiu jitsu classes are split into two types: gi and no gi. For gi classes you wear a gi which is a heavy cotton jacket with drawstring pants and colored belt representing your rank. For no gi classes you wear a rashguard and athletic shorts.
Yes, you can put your rashguard in the dryer. However, it may reduce elasticity of the material over time. If you are concerned with damage we recommend putting it on a low heat cycle. Additionally, you should always check the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm.
For men, no, you do not wear anything underneath your rash guard for jiu jitsu. For women, generally, they wear a sport bra underneath their rashguard.
Rashguards are specifically made for bjj training with added features like a reinforced neckline, aerated fabrics, flatlock stitching, sublimated graphics, waistband liner (to keep it from riding up), and generally, are made of thicker, more durable material.
Compression shirts are often thinner and overall just less durable, but do come at a more affordable price. However, yes, you can still train jiu jitsu in a compression shirt.
For Brazilian jiu jitsu, your rashguard should fit snug to your body around your chest, shoulders, and arms with a little more space in your midsection. It should be tight enough to not get int the way of training but not too tight where it limits your movement, breathing, or bloodflow.
A good rule of thumb for understanding the IBJJF rashguard requirements is that your rashguard should have a base color of white or black or black and white and then have at least 10% of it include your belt rank color. It can also be entirely made up of your rank color.
If you’re looking for the ideal rashguard for BJJ you should choose a rashguard that meets your gym’s requirements (if they have any), that has your preferred look and design, and is made from moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry with a snug fit without limiting your range of motion.
Some ways to train bjj with bad knees are by avoiding standup grappling, prioritizing half guard both offensively and defensively, utilizing positions that offer more control like mount, rear mount, and avoiding more dynamic positions like top side control or top turtle.
Yes, the IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation) does allow knee sleeves or knee braces in competition. However, they require that the knee sleeve be made of a cloth-like material, should not have any hard parts, and must be black, white, or the same color as the rank (belt) of the athlete.
Yes, the Bauerfeind GENUTRAIN Knee Brace is worth it for BJJ athletes. It offers the most support when compared to other knee sleeves without being a “hard” knee brace. It is well made with premium fabric and offers an excellent fit.