Let me start by saying this grappling dummy is a project, not a plug-and-play training tool. When it arrived unfilled, I initially panicked – but then I saw it as an opportunity to recycle all those old t-shirts and towels cluttering my closet.

The stuffing process is no joke. I emptied three full laundry baskets of clothes into this thing before it started feeling substantial. Pro tip: Wear long sleeves when stuffing – that back zipper is no joke and left some battle scars on my forearms during the process.

Once filled (and I mean really filled – don't skimp here), the dummy transforms into a surprisingly capable training partner. The canvas material holds up well to throws and submissions, though I did notice some stitching starting to stretch after particularly aggressive sprawl drills.

What surprised me most was how human-like the proportions feel when properly stuffed. Working armbar transitions actually feels realistic compared to other dummies I've used. The weight distribution isn't perfect (I still find myself adjusting stuffing between sessions), but for drilling technique at home, it's been invaluable.

Bonus discovery: My kids have claimed it as their own wrestling buddy when I'm not using it, and it's held up remarkably well to their roughhousing too.