Great environment and wonderful coaches who care. I'm grateful for the time I spent at Journey. If you're like me BJJ or any contact sport may come across intimidating at first but the coaches and fol…
Why Madison Athletes Choose Journey BJJ for No-Gi Training
Real results from athletes who've discovered the addictive power of No-Gi BJJ. See why our program creates the most well-rounded grapplers in Madison.
3x
Faster Technique Development
Compared to gi-only training
89%
Improve Takedown Defense
Within 8 weeks of training
94%
Feel More Athletic
Dynamic movement unlocks potential
67%
Transition from Gi Training
Add No-Gi to expand their game
4.9/5
Student Satisfaction
Google & Facebook reviews
6+
Years Training Champions
Proven competition results
Why No-Gi BJJ
The Most Complete Grappling Training Available
No-Gi BJJ strips away the traditional gi to reveal pure grappling skill. Train the techniques used in MMA, submission wrestling, and real-world self-defense. Develop skills that work when you can't rely on fabric grips or clothing.
Modern Submission Systems
Master the most effective leg locks, heel hooks, and submission chains that dominate today's competition scene. These are the techniques winning at the highest levels.
Real-World Application
No-Gi techniques work in any situation - self-defense, MMA, or street encounters. When you can't rely on fabric, you develop skills that transfer to real-world scenarios.
Athletic Development
The dynamic nature of No-Gi training builds incredible conditioning, flexibility, and body awareness. It's a full-body workout that makes you a better athlete overall.
Takedown Mastery
Without gi grips, you develop legitimate wrestling and takedown skills. Learn to control distance, timing, and positioning for dominant takedowns that work everywhere.
Mental Toughness
The fast pace and constant motion of No-Gi builds incredible mental resilience. You'll develop the ability to stay calm and think clearly under intense pressure.
From Fundamentals to Competition:
Your Complete No-Gi Journey
New to No-Gi? Perfect. Many students worry that No-Gi looks too intense or fast-paced. The truth is, we start with fundamentals - basic positions, escapes, and movement patterns. You'll build confidence before advancing to dynamic techniques.
From Day One to Competition: Our structured curriculum takes you from basic body movement to advanced submission systems. Many students see dramatic improvement in their first 8 weeks, with some competing within 6 months.
Real Madison Success Stories: Journey Academy students regularly medal at IBJJF No-Gi tournaments throughout the Midwest. Our approach combines modern technique with old-school fundamentals that work under pressure.
Why No-Gi Makes You Better at Everything: Students often find that No-Gi training dramatically improves their gi game, self-defense awareness, and overall athleticism. It's grappling without a safety net. If you've been weighing BJJ against other self-defense systems, read our honest breakdown of Krav Maga vs. BJJ to understand why grapplers consistently come out on top.
No-Gi BJJ Class Schedule
Find the perfect time to experience the thrill of No-Gi training:
Mon
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Tue
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Wed
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Thu
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Fri
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Sat
Sun
Monday
1 class
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
Tuesday
1 class
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
Wednesday
2 classes
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
Thursday
2 classes
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
Friday
1 class
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
Madison Athletes Love No-Gi
Real Reviews from Real Students
Don't just take our word for it - hear from Madison athletes who discovered why No-Gi BJJ is the most addictive form of grappling training.
Great place to learn BJJ! Awesome coaches, friendly practitioners, lots of mat space to comfortably sparring and roll. Everything is clean, new and the music is great too ;)
I started training here two years ago with no grappling or combat sports experience, and I love it. Great facility and great coaches. You'll find welcoming and fun training partners at all skill/exper…
I was looking for a fitness plan that offered more than the standard lift, pull and push approach seen in most gyms. I found so much more at Journey! The instructions are clear, the staff is world cla…
Trying Jiu jitsu was probably one of the best decisions I've ever made. Excellent environment, clean facility, and incredible coaches who are passionate about the art of Jiu Jitsu. Alex, Bill, and Col…
Journey is a great place to build community and a better version of yourself. I recommend their facility for anyone, regardless of age. The environment is family-friendly and is great for whichever st…
So good I became a life time member. Great community great coaches.
Really strong onboarding program to be sure everyone new to BJJ is up to the challenge. All coaches and members are helpful and patient in assisting newer people to improve their own form & technique,…
Meet Your
Expert No-Gi Instructors in Madison
Learn from instructors who compete and win in No-Gi tournaments. Get instruction from athletes who live and breathe this dynamic art.
Coach Alex
Head Instructor
As a corporate trainer and BJJ Brown Belt, Alex was quickly frustrated by how he saw Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu being taught in gyms and on the internet. Teaming up with some of the most technical Jiu-Jitsu players in the area, together they created an accelerated learning school that is getting rave …
Experience
9 yrs teaching
11 yrs training
Certifications
Brown Belt
Instructional Design Certification
Facilitator Certification
Coach Brian
Instructor
Brian is a purple belt under Coach Alex who started training in 2021. As a law enforcement officer, Jiu-Jitsu is his passion and he believes that every discipline has something to offer and draw from to make us all the best grapplers we can be. His real-world experience brings a practical …
Experience
5 yrs teaching
6 yrs training
Certifications
Purple Belt
Check Out Our Worldclass Facility
Common Questions
Everything You Need to Know About No-Gi BJJ in Madison
Get answers to the most common questions about No-Gi training, what to expect, and how it differs from traditional gi classes.
Can I take ONLY no gi classes?
You can if you choose to, but we generally don't recommend it unless you're training purely for mma or no gi competitive jiu jitsu.
What's the difference between Gi and No-Gi BJJ?
No-Gi BJJ is practiced without the traditional kimono (gi), using shorts and rash guards instead. This creates faster-paced action, different grip strategies, and emphasizes body control over fabric manipulation. It's often considered more applicable to real-world situations and MMA.
Do I need experience to start No-Gi classes?
No, even though no gi has a reputation for being "more advanced" our no gi classes are fundamentals level and beginner friendly.
What should I wear to No-Gi classes?
Wear a rash guard (long or short sleeve) and grappling shorts or spats / leggings. No zippers, pockets, or metal that could injure training partners. Many students prefer compression gear that won't get grabbed during training.
Is No-Gi training harder than gi training?
No-Gi is different, not necessarily harder. It requires different gripping strategies and relies less on robust grips. Some find it more intuitive without complex gi grips, while others miss the control that gi provides. Both have unique challenges.
Will No-Gi help my gi game?
Absolutely! No-Gi develops timing, pressure, and body awareness that directly improves your gi training. Many world champions train both styles because they complement each other perfectly.
Can No-Gi training help with MMA or self-defense?
Yes! No-Gi is excellent preparation for MMA and real-world situations where people aren't wearing jackets. The takedowns, ground control, and submissions translate directly to practical applications.
Where do we teach
No Gi BJJ Classes?
Journey Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy
3214 Kingsley WayMadison, WI 53713
Getting Started is Simple
Your No-Gi BJJ Journey Starts Here
Ready to experience the thrill of pure grappling? Here's how to start your No-Gi BJJ training at Journey Academy in Madison.
Book Your Trial Class
Click 'Start No-Gi Training' to schedule your first class. We'll pair you with experienced training partners and ensure you have everything you need for a great first experience.
2
Experience the Difference
Feel the fast-paced action and dynamic movement that makes No-Gi addictive. Learn fundamental techniques and see why champions choose No-Gi for the ultimate grappling experience.
3
Join the No-Gi Community
Become part of Madison's most dedicated grapplers. Continue developing your skills with regular training and watch your game evolve at an incredible pace.
