BJJ vs Wrestling for Beginners: What Changes?

BJJ and wrestling are both grappling. You can work standing and on the ground in either one. What changes in the match rules is what gets rewarded once the action reaches the mat. NCAA men's folkstyle wrestling and IBJJF BJJ show the difference. Their rules don't describe every wrestling style, BJJ event or beginner class.

Two rule examples: NCAA folkstyle rewards an escape or reversal from underneath; an IBJJF BJJ sweep from guard can score
The diagram compares what NCAA folkstyle and IBJJF BJJ can reward when one grappler is underneath.

What do wrestling and BJJ matches reward?

Both styles involve taking someone down and working for control. Under the NCAA men's folkstyle wrestling rules, a takedown, escape, reversal, near fall and pin matter to the match. Under the IBJJF BJJ rules, a takedown, sweep, guard pass and dominant positions can score, while a submission can decide the match.

For the point values and scoring conditions in the BJJ example, read our IBJJF points guide.

What changes when you are underneath?

In NCAA folkstyle wrestling, getting out from underneath for an escape or changing who has control for a reversal can earn a score. In IBJJF BJJ, a sweep from guard can score when the rule's conditions are met. Guard is a ground position where you use your legs and body to manage the person above you.

How can you choose a beginner grappling class?

Start with what you would actually practice, then see whether the class fits your week. Ask what beginners work on. Watch how partners work when one person is underneath. Check a real class time you can attend.

Phantom offers adult BJJ classes, including Fundamentals, Gi and No-Gi. Its schedule shows the class times. If you want to try one, you can request a trial; that request does not book a class by itself.