While submission wrestling stands on its own, many experts recommend that female grapplers also learn Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu (BJJ). BJJ focuses on the skill of taking an opponent to the ground, controlling them, and using joint locks or chokeholds to force submission—even if the practitioner is physically smaller or weaker. Adding BJJ to a submission wrestling arsenal provides a more well‑rounded skill set and additional training and competition opportunities.
Women’s submission wrestling is a diverse field covering professional sports, martial arts, and independent promotions. Reviews vary significantly based on whether the focus is on technical grappling (BJJ/MMA) or professional wrestling (WWE/AEW). Professional Grappling & MMA Reviews
Female grappling gyms and women-only classes have created supportive environments, helping to break down barriers to entry and fostering camaraderie among practitioners. Core Techniques and Skills submission wrestling women full
: Grappling demands intense cardiovascular endurance, functional core strength, and flexibility, offering an alternative to standard gym routines.
Athletes have broken barriers to become household names in combat sports. Their high-profile super-fights, instructional videos, and advocacy for equal pay have permanently elevated the status of female grapplers globally. 6. How to Get Started in Submission Grappling While submission wrestling stands on its own, many
Drills that develop these attributes—such as gripping exercises, juggling and bag work—are highly recommended for newer female grapplers.
The sport is evolving through crucial social conversations. Women’s submission wrestling is a diverse field covering
| Sport | Primary Objective | Key Techniques | Strengths & Weaknesses | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Force submission via grappling without a traditional uniform (No-Gi). | Takedowns, joint locks, chokeholds, positional control. | Strengths: Excellent for MMA crossover, fast-paced transitions. Weaknesses: Less structured point system than BJJ. | | BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) | Gain dominant position and submit opponent, often with a traditional uniform (Gi). | Positional control (mount, back control), chokes, arm/leg locks. | Strengths: Highly technical, allows smaller person to control larger opponent. Weaknesses: Less emphasis on takedowns. | | MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) | Win by knockout, submission, or judges' decision, incorporating all martial arts. | Striking (punches, kicks), takedowns, ground-and-pound, submissions. | Strengths: Complete fighting toolkit. Weaknesses: Submission wrestling and BJJ focus only on grappling, leaving strikers vulnerable to being taken down. |
Promotions like Who's Number One (WNO), Polaris, and Medusa (an all-female submission grappling event) started headlining women's matches, offering equal pay, and crowning undisputed world champions. Core Rulesets and Formats
Because competitors do not wear a traditional heavy fabric uniform (Gi), the action is significantly faster. Athletes wear rash guards and spats or shorts, reducing friction and making escapes easier, which demands higher pacing and precision. Historical Milestones and Open Horizons
Applying pressure to the Achilles or top of the foot. Chokes & Strangulations