Every martial artist, whether in BJJ, judo, MMA, wrestling, or karate, knows the frustration you wanting to train, but your partner’s busy, your gym is closed, or you can’t make it to class. Martial arts rely heavily on a training partner. You need someone to resist, react, and challenge you. But when you don’t have that, progress can stall… unless you have the right solo training equipment.
One of the most talked-about tools for solo grappling training is the grappling dummy (sometimes called a jiu-jitsu dummy or judo practice dummy). But is it worth buying? Can it replace a human? And how does it compare to other MMA training equipment, such as heavy bags, resistance bands, mats, or suspension trainers? Let’s break it down in plain English so you can make the right choice for your home martial arts training.
What Is a Grappling Dummy?
Think of a grappling dummy super heavy as a life-like practice partner that never gets tired. It’s shaped like a human body, with arms and legs, and is designed for drilling takedowns, submissions, and positions without causing harm.
There are a few types:
1. Positional Dummies – Fixed in certain stances (sitting, lying, standing).
2. Weighted Dummies – Heavier and more realistic, good for pressure and control.
3. Lightweight Dummies – Easier to move and store.
4. Material Options – Leather, synthetic leather, or strong canvas for durability.
In short: A grappling dummy gives you a “person” to train with, even if it’s not alive or fighting back.
Why Grappling Dummies Are So Useful for Solo Training
If you’re serious about self-training in martial arts, a dummy has some big advantages:
• Safe Practice for Submissions – Drill armbars, kimuras, triangles without hurting anyone.
• Better Positional Control – Practice mount, side control, guard, and back control transitions as many times as you want.
• Muscle Memory – Repeat a move 100 times, or even 1,000, until it’s second nature.
• Train Anytime – Morning, night, or weekends the dummy is always ready.
• Built to Last – A good martial arts dummy (like those from Victor Budo USA) can take years of throws, locks, and slams.
The Drawbacks You Should Know
Let’s be honest a grappling dummy isn’t perfect:
• No Resistance – It won’t push back like a real fighter.
• No Movement – You won’t get that “unpredictable” opponent feel.
• Not Perfect for Grip Training – Arms and legs feel different from a real human.
• No Coaching Feedback – You could drill a move wrong without realizing it.
That’s why most fighters use it as a supplement to partner training not a replacement.
Other Solo Martial Arts Training Tools
If you want to keep your skills sharp without a partner, here’s what else you can use:
1. Heavy Bag
A must-have for MMA and striking training at home.
Pros:
• Builds punching/kicking power and cardio.
• Great for movement drills.
Cons:
• No grappling practice possible.
Best Use: Pair with a grappling dummy for a complete striking + grappling routine.
2. Resistance Bands
Portable and perfect for fighter strength training.
Pros:
• Great for explosive power in takedowns.
• Good for warm-ups and rehab.
Cons:
• Not realistic for actual grappling moves.
3. Solo Training Mats
Your safe training surface for jiu-jitsu at home.
Pros:
• Protects your body during falls and rolls.
• Let's you drill movements without injuries.
Cons:
• No “opponent” works best with a dummy on top.
4. Suspension Trainers (TRX)
Great for core stability and functional strength.
Pros:
• Builds injury-preventing muscles.
• Improves balance.
Cons:
• No martial arts technique practice.
5. Online Coaching / Virtual Classes
Stay connected to your coach or academy.
Pros:
• Learn new moves and get feedback.
• Keep motivated with a training plan.
Cons:
• Need equipment to practice physically.
Quick Comparison Chart
| Tool | Technique Practice | Strength | Portability | Best For |
| Grappling Dummy | ✅ High | ✅ Medium | ⚠️ Medium | Grappling drills |
| Heavy Bag | ❌ Low | ✅ High | ❌ Low | Striking power |
| Resistance Bands | ❌ Low | ✅ High | ✅ High | Strength & rehab |
| Solo Mats | ❌ Low | ❌ Low | ✅ High | Movement & safety |
| Virtual Classes | ✅ Medium | ✅ Medium | ✅ High | Learning new moves |
Choosing the Right Tool for Your Needs
Ask yourself:
• Want to sharpen BJJ or judo technique? → Go with a 250 pound throwing dummy.
• Want MMA striking at home? → Get a heavy bag.
• Want strength and power? → Use resistance bands or TRX.
• Low budget? → Start with mats and bands, then upgrade.
Why Combining Tools Works Best
The best fighters use more than one tool:
• Grappling Dummy + Heavy Bag = Grappling + Striking
• Dummy + Resistance Bands = Technique + Strength
• Virtual Classes + Dummy = Learn + Apply
Sample Training Plan:
| Day | Focus | Equipment |
| Mon | Grappling drills | Dummy + Mats |
| Wed | Strength | Resistance Bands |
| Fri | Striking | Heavy Bag |
| Sun | Learn new moves | Virtual Class + Dummy |
Conclusion
Training without a live partner can feel limiting, but with the right tools, you can still make significant progress in your martial arts journey. A grappling dummy offers unmatched benefits for practicing positions, submissions, and transitions at your own pace. While it can’t replace the unpredictability of a real opponent, it gives you the freedom to drill techniques, improve muscle memory, and stay consistent anytime, anywhere.
That said, no single training tool is perfect. Pairing your grappling dummy with heavy bags for striking, resistance bands for strength, and online martial arts classes for expert guidance can create a balanced solo training routine. Whether you practice Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, Judo, or self-defense, having the right combination of equipment ensures you keep improving even when you can’t make it to the gym.
At Victor Budo USA, we understand the importance of reliable, high-quality training gear. That’s why we offer durable grappling dummies, striking equipment, and accessories designed for real martial artists who want to train smarter, not just harder.
