Is Catch Wrestling Better Than BJJ?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling Is Catch Wrestling Better Than BJJ? When it comes to grappling martial arts, two of the most popular styles are catch wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Both have their own unique techniques, strategies, and philosophies. In this article, we will delve into the debate of whether catch wrestling is better than BJJ. The Origins Catch wrestling originated in the late 19th century in England and later gained popularity in the United States. It emphasizes takedowns, submissions, and ground control. On the other hand, BJJ was developed in Brazil by the Gracie family and focuses on using leverage and technique to overcome bigger opponents. The Techniques Catch Wrestling: Aggressive Takedowns: Catch wrestling places a strong emphasis on aggressive takedowns, focusing on throws, slams, and trips to swiftly bring opponents to the ground. Submissions: Catch wrestlers are known for their extensive knowledge of submission holds such as leg locks, neck cranks, wrist locks, and chokes. Pinning Holds: Unlike BJJ which aims for submissions from various positions on the ground, catch wrestlers often focus on pinning their opponents with tight control and pressure. BJJ: Guard Play: BJJ practitioners excel at utilizing various guard positions to defend themselves while looking for opportunities to submit their opponents. Sweeps: Sweeps are a crucial aspect of BJJ. Practitioners use momentum and leverage to reverse positions from bottom to top. Back Control: The ability to take the opponent’s back and secure a rear-naked choke is a hallmark of BJJ. The Training Philosophy The training philosophy in catch wrestling emphasizes physicality, explosiveness, and aggression. Catch wrestlers often focus on conditioning, strength training, and intense sparring sessions to prepare for competition. In contrast, BJJ places more emphasis on technique, leverage, timing, and flow. BJJ practitioners often engage in positional drilling and rolling sessions to refine their skills. Which is Better? The question of whether catch wrestling is better than BJJ is subjective and largely depends on personal preference, goals, and individual strengths. Both styles have proven effective in various combat sports competitions. If you prefer an aggressive style with a focus on takedowns and submissions from various positions, catch wrestling might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more technical approach with an emphasis on leverage and ground control, BJJ could be your preferred option. In the end, it’s essential to remember that the effectiveness of any martial art depends on the practitioner’s dedication, skill level, and ability to adapt to different situations. It may be beneficial to explore both styles or even cross-train in catch wrestling and BJJ to develop a well-rounded grappling game. In conclusion, while the debate between catch wrestling and BJJ continues among grappling enthusiasts, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and goals. Whichever style you choose to pursue, remember that consistency in training and a willingness to learn will ultimately determine your success on the mat.
