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4 Best Grappling Dummies
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Buying Guide for the Best Grappling Dummies
When looking for the right grappling dummy, it’s important to focus on how it matches your training goals, body size, and durability requirements. Grappling dummies come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each designed to help you practice techniques like throws, submissions, and ground work. Before choosing, think about what martial arts discipline you’re training for and which movements you want to drill. Also consider how much space you have for training and storage. Your dummy should help you maximize your practice while keeping you safe and motivated.WeightWeight is the amount the dummy weighs and it’s important because it affects how realistic your training feels and how easy it is to handle or move around. Lighter dummies (under 50 lbs) are good for younger users, beginners, or those practicing speed and volume-based drills. Medium-weight dummies (50-90 lbs) provide a balance between mobility and realism for most adults. Heavier dummies (over 90 lbs) are best for simulating real opponent resistance, especially for throws and takedowns. To pick the right weight, consider your own strength and the types of techniques you plan to practice most often.
Size and HeightSize and height refer to the dummy’s dimensions and how closely they resemble a real human. Proper size matters for practicing techniques accurately and comfortably. Child-size dummies are shorter and lighter, suitable for kids or smaller users. Adult-size dummies come in a range of heights (typically 4 to 6 feet) and better replicate real opponents. For realistic drilling, choose a dummy with a size that matches or slightly challenges your own body dimensions.
Material and DurabilityMaterial and durability concerns what the dummy is made from and how well it withstands repeated use. Fabrics like synthetic leather or canvas are most common; real leather is available but pricier. Cheaper materials may tear or lose shape quickly, while high-quality options last longer under heavy training. If you plan to use the dummy frequently or for more intense grappling, invest in one with strong stitching and durable fabric. For occasional or light use, a simpler material may be enough.
Joints and FlexibilityJoints and flexibility refer to how well the dummy’s limbs can bend or move. Some dummies are rigid, making them ideal for throws but not submissions. Others have bendable arms, legs, and even necks, allowing for more realistic joint locks and chokes. Consider what techniques you want to practice: rigid dummies are sturdy for slams and takedowns, while flexible ones are better for working on submissions and positional control. Choose based on your training focus.
Position (Laying, Sitting, or Standing)The position of the dummy means the default posture it maintains—laying flat, sitting upright, or standing. Laying dummies are great for ground technique and grappling, sitting dummies work well for clinching and submission practice, and standing dummies are best if you need to work on throws or takedowns from a standing position. Pick the position that matches your training style. If you do a mix, look for a convertible design.
FillabilityFillability describes whether the dummy arrives filled or needs to be filled at home. Unfilled dummies are easier to ship and usually cheaper, but they require you to stuff them with materials like clothes, rags, or sand. Filled dummies come ready to use but may be harder to transport. If you have specific preferences about weight, choosing an unfilled dummy lets you customize it. If convenience matters, a pre-filled dummy is preferable.