Grappling practice focused on takedowns, positional control, reversals and submissions, generally without strikes.
Grappling encompasses forms of close-contact combat in which the aim is to control a partner, improve one's position and, depending on the rules, secure a submission.
Training includes takedowns, guard passes, positional control, reversals, escapes and permitted joint locks or chokes.
Grappling is generally practised without strikes and often without a gi, making balance, positioning, leverage, mobility and adaptation especially important.
Today, grappling describes a family of wrestling and submission practices drawing on different traditions. Modern sporting forms have been influenced by wrestling, catch wrestling, judo, jujutsu and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Several federations have developed rules that allow grappling to be practised as a distinct sport.
Grappling relies on understanding positioning, leverage, balance and a partner's reactions.
Training against resistance allows techniques to be tested while demanding careful control of submissions and immediate respect for a tap or verbal surrender.
Grappling may particularly appeal to people who enjoy close contact, groundwork, strategy and physical problem-solving without necessarily wanting striking.
United World Wrestling (UWW) — Grappling
French Wrestling and Associated Disciplines Federation
