How to Use Freestyle Sambo Techniques

Freestyle sambo is an American variation on the Russian martial arts discipline that uses grappling and throwing techniques similar to judo. Freestyle sambo permits many choke holds and submission techniques that are illegal in sport sambo (the original Russian competitive style). However, strikes such as kicks and punches are banned for freestyle sambo competitions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Sparring partner

1. Find a martial arts training facility that teaches freestyle sambo techniques to students. Generally, these classrooms are confined to the Unites States, and are certified by the American Sambo Association.
2. Learn how to use the various throws and grappling techniques used in freestyle sambo from a certified instructor, and understand the differences between freestyle sambo and the more traditional sport sambo style. With freestyle sambo, you can use many wrist, shoulder, knee and ankle locks that are not allowed in other types of martial arts competitions.
3. Steer clear of the use of grappling or throwing techniques that may cause you to be disqualified in a freestyle sambo match. These illegal techniques include any type of biting, pinching, scratching, manipulation of fingers and toes and pressure to the windpipe, nose or joints. In addition, any type of martial arts strike, such as a punch or a kick, is strictly forbidden.
4. Familiarize yourself with the point system used to score freestyle sambo matches. A single point is awarded when you take your opponent down through the use of your body, such as using your weight to force an opponent to the ground. Two points are awarded if you are able to take your opponent to the mat while you still remain on your knees, and 3 points are awarded when you are able to throw your opponent to the ground while you remain standing.
5. Train to use freestyle sambo techniques that will help you to score additional point while you are on the ground. You can score points by holding a position of dominance over your opponent for more than 20 seconds, or if you are able to maintain your guard after repeated attempts by your opponent to dominate you.

Tips & Warnings

• Freestyle sambo techniques were developed by the American Sambo Association, and the rules were put in writing in 2004. For more information about freestyle sambo techniques, check out the website for the American Sambo Association (see Resources below).