How to Tie a Gi

The gi (pronounced gee), a mixed martial arts uniform, was designed in 1907 by Kano Jigoro, founder of Kodokan Judo in Tokyo, Japan. While earlier uniforms were composed of shorts and short-sleeved jackets, Jigoro lengthened and loosened the design of the uniform for protection and comfort. The trousers are still short compared to street clothes, reaching to about mid-calf, and are tied at the waist by drawstrings. The jacket, with sleeves that reach to mid-forearm, is tied by a long cloth belt, or obi. The average obi is approximately 100 inches long and 2 inches wide, and tied following specific steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Gi jacket
  • Belt (obi)
  • Gi trousers
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Instructions

  1. Tie the Gi Jacket

    • 1

      Put on the jacket, crossing the left lapel over the right. Tie the inner strings together if included.

    • 2

      Hold the middle of the obi over the navel in one hand, with one end reaching to the right hip area. Wind the longer end completely around the body, bringing it under the shorter end at the navel.

    • 3

      Wrap the long end around the body again, covering both previous layers at the navel. Cross the long end over the short (right) end and push the long end up under both belt layers.

    • 4

      Bring the long end, pointing down, directly over the short end. Hold the long end stationary and move the short end toward the right hip again.

    • 5

      Cross the short end over the long end to form a loop, then pull the long end up and through the loop. Tighten the knot firmly and adjust the obi layers smoothly around the waist.

    Tie the Gi Trousers

    • 6
      Gi trousers can be adjusted for fit using drawstrings and loops .

      Step into the trousers and pull the strings outward from either hip, adjusting the fit until the pants are comfortable, but secure. Make sure the string ends are even.

    • 7

      Cross each string through the loop at the front of the trousers and tie the strings in a bow or square knot.

    • 8

      If there are two loops on the front of the trousers, slip the left string through the left loop, and do the same with the right string. Pull gently on either string to make sure the ends are even, then tie the strings securely in a bow knot.

    • 9

      Tuck any long drawstring ends into the waist of the trousers, as the drawstrings should not hang below the jacket of the gi.