Submission Grappling Classes in Tbilisi — No-Gi Training at Gymnasia
Submission Grappling at Gymnasia
Submission grappling strips combat down to its purest form — no strikes, no gi to grip, just body-on-body control, technique, and strategy. At Gymnasia in Tbilisi, our submission grappling program develops the skills that matter most in ground fighting: takedowns, positional dominance, joint locks, and chokes. This is the fastest-growing discipline in combat sports, and our program draws from BJJ, wrestling, and judo to create well-rounded grapplers who can compete in any ruleset.
Why Submission Grappling at Gymnasia?
- Pure Technical Combat: Without the gi to grab, submission grappling demands superior body mechanics, timing, and control. Every technique must work through positional advantage and leverage — not by holding fabric. This makes your skills transferable to any combat sport.
- Cross-Discipline Foundation: Our grappling program integrates techniques from BJJ (guard work, submissions), wrestling (takedowns, pressure), and judo (throws, transitions). You develop a complete ground game rather than being limited to one style.
- Ideal for MMA Cross-Training: Submission grappling is the ground-fighting backbone of MMA. If you train or plan to train MMA, grappling skills are non-negotiable, and our no-gi classes give you exactly what you need for the cage.
- Open Mat Culture: Like our BJJ program, grappling classes include open mat time after each session — a chance to roll with different partners, test techniques, and develop your game at your own pace.
- Accessible to All Body Types: Grappling is the great equalizer. Technique and leverage overcome size and strength differences, making it effective and enjoyable for practitioners of every build.
What to Expect in Your First Class
A submission grappling class at Gymnasia runs 60 to 90 minutes. The session starts with a grappling-specific warm-up: hip escapes, sprawls, forward and backward rolls, and partner-based movement drills. The instructor then teaches the technique of the day — this could be a takedown entry, a guard pass, a submission chain, or an escape sequence. You drill the technique with a partner at increasing resistance, then move into positional sparring (starting from specific positions). Experienced grapplers finish with full live rounds (rolling). After class, open mat time is available for anyone who wants additional practice. Wear a rash guard and shorts or spats — no gi needed.
Our Coaches
Our submission grappling program is led by experienced coaches who bring competition-level expertise to every class.
- Pavel Zaitsev — No-Gi grappling specialist, leg lock expert, and CLA methodology coach. Coach Zaitsev's deep knowledge of modern submission grappling systems makes our no-gi program one of the most technically advanced in the region. Instagram
Our Facility
Gymnasia's grappling area at our Lisi location offers over 200 square meters of premium tatami mats — plenty of space for drilling and rolling without running into other pairs. The mats are cleaned daily, the space is climate-controlled, and the environment is specifically designed for ground-based martial arts training.
Class Schedule
Train submission grappling at Gymnasia:
- Gymnasia Lisi: View Full Schedule
Grappling classes run multiple times per week, and many members also attend BJJ gi classes and wrestling to develop a complete ground game.
Reviews from Our Members
What Our Members Say
The only gym in Tbilisi full of daylight and positive energy. Wide variety of classes for everyone. Nice design, super friendly stuff, clean and affordable.
Gymnasia has become one of my favourite places since the very first day. Healthy community, helpful staff, professional trainers, great food and a cool atmosphere.
Great place, friendly staff, experienced trainers. Our whole family goes.
Pricing
| Package | Monthly Price |
|---|---|
| Trial Class | Free |
| 8 classes/month | 240 GEL |
| 10 classes/month | 270 GEL |
| 12 classes/month | 300 GEL |
| 15 classes/month | 345 GEL |
| 20 classes/month | 400 GEL |
Commitment discounts: 3 months -10% | 6 months -15% | 12 months -20%
Frequently Asked Questions
Is submission grappling suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. Grappling is one of the safest martial arts to start because there are no strikes, and you can stop any submission attempt by tapping out. Beginners are paired with experienced partners who help them learn safely, and the instructor ensures techniques are taught progressively from simple to complex.
What should I wear to class?
A rash guard (tight-fitting athletic top) and grappling shorts or spats (compression tights). No gi (kimono) is needed — that is the whole point of no-gi grappling. Avoid clothing with zippers, buttons, or pockets. Gear is available at krivi.ge.
How often should I train submission grappling?
For beginners, 2 to 3 sessions per week is excellent. As you develop, adding gi BJJ or wrestling classes (3 to 5 total grappling sessions per week) will accelerate your progress dramatically. The more mat time, the faster you improve.
Do I need my own equipment?
Just a rash guard and shorts for your trial class. For regular training, consider adding a mouthguard for live rolling and knee pads if desired. No special equipment beyond clothing is required — that is the beauty of no-gi grappling.
Is submission grappling safe? What about injuries?
Submission grappling is remarkably safe because all submissions are applied gradually and you can tap out at any time. Training intensity is controlled, and beginners work at reduced speed with experienced partners. There are no strikes, so the most common risks (concussions, cuts) are eliminated. Coaches supervise all sparring.
Can I compete?
Yes. Submission grappling has a thriving competition scene, including ADCC qualifiers, local grappling tournaments, and no-gi divisions at BJJ competitions. Our coaches prepare competitors with specific training and strategy work.
What age groups can train?
Our adult submission grappling program is open to anyone 16 and older. All fitness levels and body types are welcome.
How is submission grappling different from BJJ?
The techniques overlap significantly, but submission grappling is practiced without the gi (kimono). This means no collar chokes, no sleeve grips, and no lapel guards — everything relies on underhooks, overhooks, and body control. No-gi grappling tends to be faster-paced and more dynamic. Many practitioners train both gi and no-gi to develop the most complete ground game.
Ready to Step on the Mat?
Submission grappling at Gymnasia will teach you to control, submit, and escape in the most challenging human chess match there is. No experience needed, no gi needed — just show up in a rash guard and shorts. Your first class is free.
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