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Grappling vs. Striking: Which Should You Master First?

By : Nuwod Digital

Grappling vs. Striking: Which Should You Master First?

Choosing the Right Path in Martial Arts for Beginners

 

Introduction

Whether you're stepping into MMA, self-defense training, or traditional martial arts, you’ll face a common question: Should I learn grappling or striking first? Each path has its unique advantages, challenges, and philosophies.

 

What is Striking?

Striking involves hitting your opponent using punches, kicks, knees, and elbows. Common disciplines include Boxing, Muay Thai, and Kickboxing.

 

Disciplines:

  • Boxing

  • Muay Thai

  • Kickboxing

  • Karate

  • Taekwondo


Pros of Striking

  • Distance Control: Learn to manage space and range.

  • Quick Self-Defense: Effective for real-world situations where fast action is needed.

  • Cardio & Fitness: Improves endurance, explosiveness, and agility.

  • Visual Feedback: You can see your technique improving (e.g., hitting pads or bags).


Cons of Striking

  • Limited on the Ground: Not useful once you're taken down.

  • Higher Risk of Injuries: Especially to hands, wrists, and head.

Gear for Striking

 

What is Grappling?

Grappling involves clinches, takedowns, control positions, and submissions—without striking. Common disciplines include BJJ, Judo, and Wrestling.

Disciplines:

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

  • Judo

  • Wrestling

  • Sambo

 

Pros of Grappling

  • Control Over Opponents: Learn how to subdue without strikes.

  • Effective Against Larger Opponents: Uses leverage and technique over strength.

  • Real-World Utility: Many self-defense situations end on the ground.

  • Longer Career Span: Generally lower injury rate compared to striking sports.


Cons of Grappling

  • Steeper Learning Curve: Mastery takes time.

  • Less Spectacular for Beginners: No flashy hits or fast knockouts.

  • Limited Striking Defense: Doesn’t teach you how to absorb or throw punches.

 

Gear for Grappling

 

Comparison Table

Striking is great for fitness and distance fighting; Grappling is essential for control and ground combat. Choose based on your goals and physical attributes.

 

Criteria

Striking

Grappling
Goal: Fitness
Excellent for cardio and toning
Great for functional strength
Goal: Self-defense
Quick neutralization
Control without violence
Goal: Competition (MMA)
Needed for stand-up exchanges
Essential for ground control
Body Type: Lean
Advantage in speed & reach
May struggle with top pressure
Body Type: Stocky
Power-based advantage
Suits pressure/control style
Preferred Range
Long-range fighters
Close-range grapplers


Why Not Both?

Eventually, a well-rounded martial artist needs both. Starting with one builds a strong base, but training both creates a complete fighter. 

However, choosing one to start with helps build a strong base.

  • Start with Striking if you want to learn quickly, enjoy visible progress, and love fast-paced training.

  • Start with Grappling if you prefer strategy, control, and ground-based fighting.

 

Final Verdict

There’s no universally right answer. The better choice is aligned with your goals, abilities, and learning style.

 

Starter Kits

 

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