Searching For The Best Grappling Dummy
Grappling is one of the most challenging aspects of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Many have a hard time with the techniques so they end up failing to perform on the mat. One way to get better is to practice the drills as often as possible to master their intricacies. It would be great if you can do so with a friend who is in a similar situation but this isn't entirely necessary. For those who prefer going solo, there is always the option of using a grappling dummy. There are a number of products on the market so it can be a bit overwhelming. Here are a few tips to zero in on the best grappling dummy:
Realistic Design
You are going to fight living, breathing humans in actual matches. Therefore, your dummy should be as close to the real thing as possible. The ideal unit is anatomically correct. The height should be spot on, as well as the length and shape of the limbs. The ratios should look natural even at first glance. Some units fail to get the basics right with single legs and other oddities. If you are fighting with a gi, then the dummy should also be able to put one on without any problems. This will make it easier for you to grab it and find a good position for your moves.
Flexible Limbs
The positions of the arms and legs are crucial to success when you are grappling with an opponent. You want a dummy that can mimic the feel of actual human limbs in terms of rotation and flexibility. There should also be a good amount of resistance when you are trying to twist and lock them in place. Check whether the ones on your list have this feature. Unfortunately, most models are quite stiff so they won't provide the same feel and this can ruin the experience. The limbs may get in the way instead of helping you get better.
Durable Materials
The product should be able to last for many years. The manufacturers know that it is going to be absorbing a great deal of abuse. They must find ways to prevent damage despite repeated blows and pulls. A dummy that shows signs of damage within the first few weeks is useless as you will not have the confidence to train with it extensively. Check the kinds of materials used in the product. Most will have nylon or synthetic leather for the skin. Each of them has their own pros and cons. What about the other parts of the dummy? Do they seem that they will hold up with time?
Excellent Workmanship
One sign of a quality product is excellent workmanship. Check the stitching along the seams. Are these clean and secure? It is not uncommon to have double, triple, or even more stitches along vulnerable areas to make sure that they will not come undone. Of course, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. By that logic, the proof of the dummy is in the beating. Ask your friends who have one at home to provide feedback. Their experience is invaluable when you are on the hunt for a grappling dummy. Watch and read online reviews if you can find them to gain insight from actual owners.
Final Words
Humans will always be the best training partners. They are smart enough to counter, provide feedback, and throw some fun banter during practice. However, they might not always be available or suitable for the sessions that we are keen to do. A dummy, despite its shortcomings, can fill the gaps and give us a reliable tool for honing our skills. Just make sure that you buy the best grappling dummy that you can find based on the criteria stated above.
Realistic Design
You are going to fight living, breathing humans in actual matches. Therefore, your dummy should be as close to the real thing as possible. The ideal unit is anatomically correct. The height should be spot on, as well as the length and shape of the limbs. The ratios should look natural even at first glance. Some units fail to get the basics right with single legs and other oddities. If you are fighting with a gi, then the dummy should also be able to put one on without any problems. This will make it easier for you to grab it and find a good position for your moves.
Flexible Limbs
The positions of the arms and legs are crucial to success when you are grappling with an opponent. You want a dummy that can mimic the feel of actual human limbs in terms of rotation and flexibility. There should also be a good amount of resistance when you are trying to twist and lock them in place. Check whether the ones on your list have this feature. Unfortunately, most models are quite stiff so they won't provide the same feel and this can ruin the experience. The limbs may get in the way instead of helping you get better.
Durable Materials
The product should be able to last for many years. The manufacturers know that it is going to be absorbing a great deal of abuse. They must find ways to prevent damage despite repeated blows and pulls. A dummy that shows signs of damage within the first few weeks is useless as you will not have the confidence to train with it extensively. Check the kinds of materials used in the product. Most will have nylon or synthetic leather for the skin. Each of them has their own pros and cons. What about the other parts of the dummy? Do they seem that they will hold up with time?
Excellent Workmanship
One sign of a quality product is excellent workmanship. Check the stitching along the seams. Are these clean and secure? It is not uncommon to have double, triple, or even more stitches along vulnerable areas to make sure that they will not come undone. Of course, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. By that logic, the proof of the dummy is in the beating. Ask your friends who have one at home to provide feedback. Their experience is invaluable when you are on the hunt for a grappling dummy. Watch and read online reviews if you can find them to gain insight from actual owners.
Final Words
Humans will always be the best training partners. They are smart enough to counter, provide feedback, and throw some fun banter during practice. However, they might not always be available or suitable for the sessions that we are keen to do. A dummy, despite its shortcomings, can fill the gaps and give us a reliable tool for honing our skills. Just make sure that you buy the best grappling dummy that you can find based on the criteria stated above.