Grappling Dummy Size Guide for Kids, Teens and Adults in Australia

When selecting a grappling dummy, it's more than simply picking the biggest or heaviest one on the market. The size of the dummy should be appropriate to the athlete's body, training objectives, space constraints and safe movement of the dummy.

Sole drills are more practical with a well matched dummy as arms, legs and torso are easier to handle. However, a large dummy may turn out to be challenging to move for a younger athlete and a small dummy may not give an adult sufficient practice.

This is a comparison of the most popular sizes in Australia, 40-inch, 47-inch, 56-inch and 70-inch to help you determine which grappling dummy size is most appropriate for your home or gym training.

Compare 40-inch, 47-inch, 56-inch and 70-inch grappling dummy sizes to choose the right option for kids, teens, adults and different training goals.

The size of the grappling dummy is of the utmost importance.

The art of grappling includes shifting the dummy, moving his/her arms around the dummy and constantly changing positions. The size of the dummy should thus be big enough to allow for some good technique practice but not so large that it will be cumbersome.

The proper size could assist users to practice movements with greater control such as transitions in guard, fundamental submissions, positions, clinch positions, and ground and pound sequences.

If you're looking to purchase a grappling dummy in Australia, then think about who will be the most frequent user. Select models that are lighter and easier to move around for children, and larger training partners for adults and for advanced athletes.

40-Inch Grappling Dummy

The 40-inch is around 100 cm tall, and is typically the smallest in the size guide.

It may suit:

• Kids
• Beginners
• Smaller home-training spaces
• It is important to incorporate technique and speed based drills.

It is smaller and so may be more easily lifted, turned and repositioned during practice by the younger user. Supports initial repetition of movement without need for them to control an adult sized dummy.

Another grappling toy for kids that can be stored easily between matches is a small grappling dummy. But it is still best to consider the product's filled weight, material and recommended use before ordering.

47-Inch Grappling Dummy

The 47" model is about 120" cm tall. It's in between the small children and large teen/adult models.

It may suit:

• Younger Teens and children
• Beginners
• Home-training athletes
• Users that are upgrading from a smaller dummy

This size can offer some body length for guard work and simple transitions, but with a relatively manageable size. For families with more than one young athlete, it could be a viable option to purchase the same training gear.

If the trainer is starting to set up a training area for the purpose of developing a basic training area, a 47" model can be used in tandem with other home MMA training gear, such as floor mats, gloves, and resistance bands.

56-Inch Grappling Dummy

It is available in 56″ which measures around 140 cm in height, and has a heavier training body.

It may suit:

• Teens
• Adults
• General home training
• All-round technique practice

This dimension can provide a great compromise in realistic body length vs good handling. May be appropriate for positional drilling, submission entries, transitions and repeated movement practice.

For the hobbyist who wants something more realistic than a children's version, but doesn't need the length of a 70-inch dummy, the 56-inch dummy could be helpful.

Take some time to consider the height of grappling dummies for home training, but don't forget it is not the only consideration. The overall design, the firmness of the filling and the position and type of the limbs will also contribute to the feel of the dummy while being used.

70-Inch Grappling Dummy

The 70" size is around 180 cm tall and is the highest of the sizes displayed in the guide.

It may suit:

• Adults
• Advanced athletes
• MMA and WRESTLING DRILLS!
• Striking and partner simulation bigger than the partner.

It has a longer body allowing for more of an adult-sized training experience. Useful for athletes that are working on takedown position, clutching, ground control or striking skills.

But, a larger dummy can also take up more room on the floor and be harder to move. Use caution before selecting this size as there should be enough space in the training area to make safe transitions and repositioning.

Gym owners who are considering purchasing multiple sizes might want to look at wholesale MMA equipment to offer choices for classes for children, teens and adults.

Match the Dummy with the Main User

The biggest dummy isn't necessarily the best. Choose the model that will be used the most by the user.

The dummy should be easy for the child to handle – not too hard. A mid-size option might be better for teens that will allow them to grow. There are two adult sizes available: 56" and 70".

Another question parents should ask about the dummy is if it is being used independently or under supervision. Before practicing over and over again, novices should be taught techniques by a trained coach.

Think about what training goals you have.

When in doubt, use the drill of your choice to help you size it!

A smaller dummy might be appropriate for speed, repetition of movements and for initial techniques. For general grappling practice, a mid-sized model might be more useful. A larger model might be better for the adult athlete who wants to work on wrestling, MMA positioning/striking.

It is also essential that the design of the dummy be appropriate. Others have shapes designed for seated guard practice, others for standing, throwing or ground based positions. Before selecting a grappling dummy based on height, look at the the DAAN MMA grappling dummies available.

Ensure that the space, storage and filling are accurate.

Measure the space to train before ordering. Provide adequate room around the dummy for movement – so there is no danger of hitting furniture, walls or other equipment.

Look also to see if the model is filled or unfilled. You can use an unfilled dummy to tweak its firmness and weight, and a pre-filled dummy will be ready to use quicker. Product dimensions and measurements should always be considered approximate and verified on the product page.

Final Takeaway

The 40” size Dummy is an affordable choice for children and novice users. The 47" model may be suitable for child, teen and home training. The 56" dummy is suitable for the teenage and/or larger adult user, and the 70" dummy is targeted towards larger adults and advanced MMA or wrestling practice.

Pick the one that fits the athlete's size, experience and training needs, and will fit the available space not just the largest one.