The Truth About Injury Rates in Wrestling, BJJ, and Judo

The data will surprise you

Oct 25, 2023

📰 In this Post:

In high-intensity grappling sports like wrestling, BJJ, and Judo, the physical and mental demands lead to a common concern about injury rates. This post delves into the truth (backed by data) behind the frequency and severity of injuries in these grappling disciplines, offering a comprehensive picture that challenges common perceptions and reveals the reality of participating in these sports.

🔑Key Points:

🥇First place: Judo (most injuries) 💀💀💀
🥈Second place: Wrestling 💀
🥉Third place: BJJ (least injuries) 🍦

📊Data:

First place: Judo Has Highest Competition Injury Rate Among Olympic Combat Sports. Sounds crazy but its true (source: here).
Second place: Wrestling - Injury rates between 29.6 and 30.7 per 1000 exposures. (Sources here and here).
Third place: Bjj - Injury rate of 9.2 per 1000 exposures (Source here).

Lystad RP, Alevras A, Rudy I, et al. Br J Sports Med 2021;55:1077–1083.

Scoggin JF 3rd, Brusovanik G, Izuka BH, Zandee van Rilland E, Geling O, Tokumura S. Assessment of Injuries During Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Competition. Orthop J Sports Med. 2014;2(2):2325967114522184. Published 2014 Feb 21. doi:10.1177/2325967114522184

Share this data with your submission grappling friends:

Disclaimer: This content is provided for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult with your primary care physician (PCP) or a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your lifestyle, diet, or exercise routine. The information presented in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. The author and publisher of this article are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use or application of the information provided. Please use your own discretion and judgment when implementing any suggestions or recommendations.