How to Build a Complete BJJ Training Kit on a Budget

How to Build a Complete BJJ Training Kit on a Budget

Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the best decisions you can make — but walking into a gym for the first time and figuring out what gear you actually need can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don't need to spend a fortune to train properly. This guide breaks down the essential BJJ training kit, what to prioritise, and where you can afford to be patient.

The Essential BJJ Training Kit

Whether you train gi, no-gi, or both, there's a core set of gear every grappler needs. Here's what matters most:

1. A BJJ Gi (for Gi Training)

If you're training gi BJJ, your gi is your most important piece of equipment. Look for a mid-weight cotton gi (350–450gsm) with reinforced stitching. You don't need the most expensive gi on the market — you need one that fits well, is durable, and can handle regular washing.

Key things to look for:

  • Correct sizing — not too big, not too small
  • Reinforced stitching at stress points
  • Pre-shrunk or shrink-resistant fabric
  • A comfortable collar

Ideally, own two gis so you always have a clean one ready. Wash after every session — cold wash, hang dry.

2. A Rashguard

A rashguard is essential for both gi and no-gi training. It protects your skin from mat burns, reduces the risk of skin infections, and provides compression support during training. For gi training, wear it under your gi jacket. For no-gi, it's your primary upper body garment.

Long sleeve rashguards offer more protection and are the standard for BJJ. Short sleeve options work well for MMA and warmer training environments.

3. Shorts or Spats (for No-Gi Training)

For no-gi training, you'll need either board shorts/fight shorts or compression spats — or both. Spats (compression leggings) offer full leg protection and are worn under shorts. Many grapplers wear spats with shorts over the top for the best of both worlds.

Avoid shorts with pockets, belt loops, or metal hardware — these can catch fingers and cause injuries.

4. A Mouthguard

Non-negotiable. Even in a friendly training environment, accidents happen. A basic boil-and-bite mouthguard from a sports shop costs very little and protects your teeth. This is one area where you should never cut corners.

5. Ear Guards (Optional but Recommended)

Cauliflower ear is a common condition among grapplers caused by repeated trauma to the ear. Ear guards won't win any style awards, but they're worth wearing — especially in the early stages of training when you're still learning how to protect yourself during scrambles.

6. A Gym Bag

You need somewhere to carry your gear. Look for a bag with a ventilated compartment to keep your gi and rashguard separate from other items. Leaving damp gear in a sealed bag is a fast track to unpleasant smells and bacteria growth.

What to Buy First

If you're just starting out and working with a tight budget, here's the order of priority:

  1. Mouthguard — cheap and essential from day one
  2. Gi — most academies require one for gi classes
  3. Rashguard — needed for both gi and no-gi
  4. Shorts or spats — for no-gi training
  5. Ear guards — once you're training regularly
  6. Gym bag — when you're committed to the sport

Budget Tips for New Grapplers

  • Don't overbuy at the start. Many beginners quit within the first few months. Start with the essentials and invest more as your commitment grows.
  • Quality over quantity. One well-made gi that lasts two years is better than two cheap ones that fall apart in six months.
  • Look after your gear. Proper washing and drying dramatically extends the life of your gi and rashguards. Cold wash, hang dry, never leave damp in a bag.
  • Buy two gis when you can. Training multiple times a week with one gi means it never fully dries between sessions. Two gis is the practical minimum for regular training.

What You Don't Need (Yet)

New grapplers are often tempted to buy everything at once. Here's what you can hold off on:

  • Multiple gis in different colours — one or two is enough to start
  • Expensive competition gis — save these for when you're competing
  • Knee pads and ankle supports — only needed if you have existing injuries
  • Finger tape — useful eventually, but not essential from day one

Final Thoughts

Building a solid BJJ training kit doesn't require a huge upfront investment. Start with the essentials, buy quality where it counts, and add to your kit as your training progresses. The mat is where the real investment happens — show up consistently, and the gear will take care of itself.

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