Grappling dummy buyers guide
It would be great if you always had a partner to spar with but unfortunately it isn’t always possible due to illness, other commitments or just the fact that you prefer to train alone. This is where a grappling dummy comes in handy. They are loyal sparring partners that will always be there for you to practice your grappling skills and improve your technique.
back to menu ↑What are the best grappling dummies?
Here we will take a look at our best grappling dummies from the hundreds of grappling dummy reviews that we have researched and analysed in great detail.
back to menu ↑What are grappling dummies?
Grappling dummies are exactly what their name suggests they are! They are dummies that you can grapple with to practice your techniques and improve your skills. You can get them in various sizes, shapes, and weights. Some of them are just bags with handles while some of them are humanoid dummies with arms and legs. When you haven’t got a sparring partner, grappling dummies are a great alternative. The only thing they cannot do is fight back!
back to menu ↑Types of grappling dummies
back to menu ↑Grappling vs Throwing Dummies
Grappling dummies can be sat down or laid on their back to practice a variety of moves. They are light, flexible and have legs and arms to allow the practice of a wider variety of movements.
On the other hand, throwing dummies are specifically designed for strength conditioning. They are heavier than grappling dummies and usually don’t have any arms or legs. This does mean the range of grappling moves that you can perform are slightly limited.
back to menu ↑Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Dummies
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu dummies (also known as BJJ dummies) are great for those of you who actively train BJJ. You can perform a range of moves on BJJ dummies such as triangle chokes, kimuras, collar chokes, razor armbars and more. You can lay them flat on their back to practice knee to belly transition, key locks, etc.
BJJ can help to make you stronger and more muscular than many other sports because it focuses on the whole body – legs, core arms, back muscles, etc. However, it won’t make you as strong as pure strength focused training.
back to menu ↑MMA Dummies
Mixed martial arts dummies (MMA dummies) have similar features and capabilities as BJJ dummies although they are usually more durable and can cater to MMA specific movements.
back to menu ↑What are the benefits of grappling dummies?
There are many benefits to owning a grappling dummy. They let you practice from the comfort of your own home and will always be available when you need to practice your drills and hone your grappling skills. A strong foundation in grappling is very important if you are training for combat sports such as MMA, Jiu Jitsu and wrestling.
Although a grappling dummy might not be considered as effective as practising on a human being who can defend themselves, the best grappling dummies are designed to make training as realistic as possible. They will be flexible yet resistant, whilst they can be used to practice different routines and positions, depending on your needs.
Grappling dummies are also a great way to practice new moves and develop your technique without causing injury to yourself or your sparring partner.
back to menu ↑How to choose the best grappling dummy for you
We all have different reasons for buying a grappling dummy. It is important when making your choice to consider what features are important to you. Here we will take a brief look at some of the most important things to be aware of during your search.
back to menu ↑Flexibility
You will want to make sure that the grappling dummy is flexible so that you can put it into all the same positions as you could a real person. It should go back to its original resting position once you have released your submission. However, if the dummy is too flexible, it won’t give much resistance which can be too unrealistic. It is important to try and get that balance between the dummy being too stiff and too flexible.
back to menu ↑Size and Weight
You should take in consideration your size and weight when choosing the best grappling dummy for you. You want a dummy that will be a similar size to you as this will let you practice your techniques properly but you don’t want something that is too heavy. It should be light enough so that you won’t get injured but also heavy enough to make it a challenge. There are also adjustable grappling dummies which allow you to change the dummy’s height. If this is a requirement of yours, be sure to check that this feature is included.
back to menu ↑Durability
The best grappling dummies should be made of top-quality materials with good stitching. The better the materials that are used, the more durable and long lasting the dummy will be. Even if you have to pay that little bit more, it could save you in the long run from needing to purchase another down the line.
back to menu ↑Filled vs. Unfilled
You can choose between an unfilled or filled grappling dummy, each has its advantages and disadvantages. Filled grappling dummies should have a good quality filling, this is typically sand. It should be spread evenly across the dummy. Keep in mind that a pre-filled dummy is heavier and will therefore cost more to ship and be harder to move around.
Unfilled grappling dummies cost less to ship and are easier to manoeuvre. You get to choose what materials you wish to fill it with. Old clothes are a popular choice as they can be more comfortable than sand. Depending on what material you use, the cost of filling the dummy may add up. It can also be difficult to get the fill evenly spread.
back to menu ↑Budget
At the end of the day, your choice is likely going to depend on your budget. You can narrow down your search but filtering grappling dummies according to those that you can afford and then identify which of those have the features that are important to you.
back to menu ↑Conclusion
Grappling dummies provide a great way to practice your technique and skills. They are especially useful for when there is no sparring partner around. When you are looking for the best grappling dummies, you will want to consider the flexibility, materials, filling, size and price. Whatever option you go for, having a dummy on standby is a great idea.
Happy training!
Rich
Rich is an avid bodybuilder who has dedicated over 20 years of his life to the sport. He has a strong passion for health and fitness, living a clean lifestyle with a commitment to helping others educate themselves and fulfil their true potential.
