Sport Sambo
Sport Sambo is a dynamic grappling-based martial art and combat sport developed in the Soviet Union, focusing on throws, pins, and joint locks without strikes. It shares similarities with judo and wrestling but has its own rule set, uniform (kurtka and shorts), and explosive tempo. Designed for athletic competition, Sport Sambo emphasizes control, balance, and transition, offering a fast-paced style well-suited for tournaments. The art is governed by FIAS and practiced globally across civilian clubs, military academies, and university sports programs. Its technical efficiency and intensity make it a favorite among grapplers worldwide.
Sport Sambo Essentials
About Sport Sambo
Get introduced to Sport Sambo—an international grappling sport known for high-amplitude throws, pinning techniques, and joint locks in a no-strike ruleset.
Sport Sambo History
Explore the development of Sport Sambo from its Soviet origins in the 1930s to its recognition by FIAS and emergence as a competitive martial art on the world stage.
Philosophy & Approach
Understand the core of Sport Sambo’s approach: leverage over strength, movement over force, and a focus on clean, decisive technique to control the opponent.
Techniques & Style
Dive into Sport Sambo’s technical arsenal—hip throws, leg picks, armlocks, rolling entries, and rapid ground transitions refined for high-level grappling competition.
Traditions & Etiquette
Learn the sport-specific etiquette of Sambo competitions and dojos, including pre-match rituals, respect for opponents, and the role of coaching and refereeing.
Uniform & Symbols
Explore the traditional Sambo uniform: the colored kurtka (jacket), shorts, and wrestling shoes—with red and blue outfits for easy scoring distinction during matches.
Weapons
Weapons are not included in Sport Sambo; the focus is purely on grappling and body control under a regulated and sport-based rule structure.
Ranking System
Review how Sport Sambo uses competition-based recognition—tournament results, national titles, and FIAS qualifications—rather than belt or sash systems.
Sport Sambo Glossary
Familiarize yourself with key Sport Sambo terminology such as kurtka, pain hold, total victory, and scoring definitions unique to Sambo tournaments.
Notable Figures
Meet world champions and icons of Sport Sambo who elevated the style through dominance on the mat and contributions to its international growth.
Branches & Organizations
Discover the structure of Sport Sambo under FIAS and national federations that host events, certify referees, and oversee training centers across continents.
Competitive Format
Learn about Sport Sambo’s tournament rules—matches won by points, pins, or total victory—emphasizing clean, effective grappling in a fast-paced environment.
