How To Pick the Best Grappling Dummy in 2022: BJJ Buyer’s Guide

A grappling dummy is an essential tool for people who practice jiu jitsu. Whether you are an expert or an amateur, you can master the martial arts moves more easily with the help of a wrestling dummy.

However, it is not always easy for jiu jitsu practitioners to select which dummy to purchase out of all the many available models in the market.

Continue reading to find out what a grappling dummy is and why it is important to have it. 

What Is a Grappling Dummy?

A grappling dummy is a piece of sports equipment which can be used to practice martial arts moves and wrestling techniques. It serves as a non-living representative of your opponent since it roughly resembles the human body in shape.

A wrestling dummy is typically designed to be heavy to mimic the weight of a body to provide a sense of realism. Most models have bendable limbs or movable joints to allow the dummy to assume various positions. Some dummies are sized for adults, while other smaller dummies are created with children in mind.

Why It Is Important To Have a Wrestling Dummy?

Having a grappling dummy allows you to repeatedly drill positions and transitions, as well as full-force throws and joint locks that may be uncomfortable for human opponents on a continuous basis.

The wrestling dummy is the ideal equipment for you if you do not have regular training partners. It is also a suitable tool if you would like to practice the sport in the comfort of your own home. It can minimize the need for fighters to travel to their jiu jitsu studio, especially when their schedule is busy or when they simply feel like reducing their interactions with other people.

Aspects To Consider When Selecting a Jiu Jitsu Dummy

At present, there are many types of grappling dummies for sale in physical shops and online stores alike. They are made from a variety of materials, plus they come in assorted shapes and sizes. Aside from this, the prices range from affordable to costly.

Since different jiu jitsu fighters have different needs, they should carefully consider these aspects when they are considering which dummy to purchase.

First, you should keep your personal budget in mind when exploring your options. Aside from estimating how much you can afford to pay based on your resources, you should also assess how much you are willing to pay for it. If you’re not that commited to jiu jitsu, it’s best to start with a more basic model and work your way up if your interest increases. Thankfully, since there are many models in the market, you can easily find a dummy that fits your own budget range.

Next, you should find a dummy that matches your age and size. Tall, adult players can choose large, weighty models, while parents should go for small, light models for their young children.

Afterwards, you should think about which types of martial art movements you would like to practice on the dummy. Some players use a dummy to perform leg locks, armbars, and transitions, while others employ it for takedowns. The motions that you wish to master should guide you on which size and shape of dummy they should select.

What Features Should Influence the Choice of a Grappling Dummy

Each jiu jitsu dummy has its own unique set of features. These are some of the factors that you should take into account when you’re thinking of buying a jiu jitsu dummy, including: 

Filled or Unfilled

Some dummies are already pre-filled with materials like sand, foam, or fabric, while others are not. Buying a dummy that is already stuffed can save time and effort, which is great if you’re short on time. It also guarantees that the dummy has been filled by an expert, so you don’t have to worry about mistakes on that front. However, a filled dummy will cost more to ship because of its extra weight and bulk.

It is more affordable to order an unfilled dummy. Due to its compact size, you’ll pay much less on shipping fees. It is also easier to customize its shape and weight compared to a filled dummy. Nevertheless, it is a more work-intensive option because the new owners will need to spend time and energy to stuff it with materials before they can use it.

Shape

Some dummies are shaped to look like the human body, with a head, arms, and legs. Others seem more like a heavy bag because they do not have any limbs. A human-shaped dummy is an appropriate alternative for jiu jitsu fighters who would like to practice complex moves, such as chokes, armbars, and leg locks. A limbless dummy may be an acceptable option for beginners who simply want to learn the basics of the martial arts form.

Weight

While the typical weight for dummies is approximately 120 pounds, certain models can weigh more or less than this standard weight. You should select the dummy with the weight that matches your weight and strength. Take note that the heavier the dummy is, the harder it will be to maneuver it.

Size

Some dummies can be as short as three feet, while others can stand as tall as six feet. Overall, the shorter models are appropriate for kid students, while the taller dummies are more suitable for adults. Of course, if you’re an adult using the dummy mostly for takedowns, then you may prefer a smaller model that’s easier to move around. 

Recommended Dummies for Jiu Jitsu Players

Check out our guide to the best grappling dummies for BJJ!

Get a Free Week at Granite Bay Jiu Jitsu to Hone Your Skills

A grappling dummy is a convenient tool for you if you are a jiu jitsu enthusiast. However, practicing with a wrestling dummy all the time is not enough for you to fully develop your martial art skills.

Aside from purchasing a jiu jitsu dummy, you should consider undergoing a free week of training at Granite Bay Jiu Jitsu. Our BJJ self-defense methodology will equip you to defeat a larger, stronger opponent by leveraging your natural body movements and timing.Call us at (916) 587-1411 today to maximize your jiu jitsu potential with our guidance. Visit our website now to get your free 7-day trial from Granite Bay Jiu Jitsu.