Monday, 31 December 2012

Find Out What A BJJ Kimono Is And How To Get One For Yourself

By Adam Davis


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. BJJ Kimono, or Gi, should be chosen with care and, to do that, you should know where you can buy the high quality ones. You should also know if there are colors that are not permitted to be used. In BJJ, expect to witness a lot of grappling and group fighting among the practitioners. BJJ is deeply rooted In the Kosen Judo form of Kodokan Judo. Carlos Gracie learned Kosen Judo from Mitsuyo Maeda. 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 material used in the construction of the gi should be cotton, or something similar. 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 is to be of sufficient length down to the thighs, sleeves must reach the wrist with arms extended in front of the body. Follow the official measurements prescribed by the IBJJF when it comes to the sleeves. The Belt width must be 4-5 cm, with belt color corresponding to the practitioners rank. The belt must be tied around the waist with a double knot, tight enough to secure the kimono closed. You should change your belt if it is showing signs of wear and tear.

Rules are strict: if you have the wrong measurements, you cannot compete. Generally, you cannot wear a shirt under the kimono, although some concessions are made on this bit when it comes to female competitors. Never paint on your gi as a form of self-expression. If it's a team competition, however, this could probably be allowed. Where You Can Buy Your BJJ Kimono The best place to start when considering where to purchase a Kimono or Gi, is your school or Dojo. If the dojo does not sell any kimonos, they may be buying their gear from a specific vendor. You can be assured that you will get quality gear and at a price you can easily afford.

But there are also advantages to buying your kimono online: they could be cheaper, and also you wouldn't have to pay taxes in most cases. But since you will be looking through a wide variety of sellers that sell a lot of BJJ kimonos, you would be having a difficult time making your choice. There is also the risk that they are of low quality. In these cases, you shouldn't hesitate to ask for help from your dojo. Going to the source is also a good idea. The Gracie school actually sells a lot of BJJ gear that you can choose from. They are considered the pioneers in this field, so product quality can be assured. The BJJ Kimono is an important part of the Brazilian style of JiuJitsu, it's important to purchase a Kimono or Gi that is sturdy as well as properly fitted. Seek expert advice and ideas when you are in the process of deciding which to buy. The school where you are learning BJJ would be a great place to start.




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