Both styles, in 30 seconds.
Gi jiu-jitsu is practiced in the traditional kimono — the fabric lets you grip the collar, sleeves, and pants. NOGI is practiced in a fitted rashguard and shorts — no fabric grips; everything runs through the partner's hips, legs, neck, and arms.
Why NOGI is faster (and more tiring).
Without fabric grips, positions are defended for less time. Control has to be tighter, transitions smoother, timing sharper. For a beginner, that means you learn to move, breathe, and manage your cardio quickly. The average intensity of a NOGI round is higher than an equivalent gi round.
What the gi teaches you that NOGI doesn't.
The gi forces precision. Collar and sleeve grips slow the game down, which lets you set up positions, lock angles, and build sensitivity to your partner's weight. Many practitioners treat the gi as a technical lab and NOGI as a competitive environment.
Why 450 teaches NOGI — including for kids.
NOGI is closer to real situations: self-defense, MMA, general athletic conditioning. For adults, it's our specialty — we build a game based on movement and control without depending on fabric grips.
For kids, we made the same call. No gi to put on, no belt to tie, no ritual. They show up in rashguard and shorts, step on the mats, and learn to move. The simplicity removes friction — the kid focuses on learning, not on the outfit.
You should try both — but start with one.
In the long run, most experienced practitioners train both. But for your first few months, pick one and go deep. Switching constantly slows progression. If you want to start with NOGI, your first class at 450 is free — book online and come try.