What is sambo?
B · Beginner · The contest · 1 of 4Sambo is a combat sport from Russia, run by the FIAS. Athletes win by throwing, pinning and locking joints. It has two forms. Sport Sambo is grappling only, with no strikes or chokes. Combat Sambo adds punches, kicks, knees and chokeholds, with helmets and gloves. A bout lasts five minutes for adults.
How it works
- Rules body: FIAS.
- Forms: Sport and Combat.
- Sport Sambo: throws, pins, locks.
- Combat Sambo: adds strikes and chokes.
- Bout: five minutes for adults.
- Kit: red or blue jacket, belt, shorts.
- Winning: total victory or points.
- Mat: circle of 8 m.
The glossary has the sambo, the sport sambo, the combat sambo, the bout, the red and blue and the total victory.
Tricky cases
Are chokes allowed in Sport Sambo?
No.
Can Sport Sambo athletes strike?
No.
Who wears red?
The athlete called first.
Is a bout longer for juniors?
No. Five minutes, as adults.
Why the rule exists
Two forms let sambo serve both as a sport and as close combat training.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Sport | No strikes | L SS 23.1 |
| Combat | Strikes, chokes | L CS 23.1 |
| Bout | Five minutes | L SS 25 |
From the rule book
FIAS, International SAMBO Rules: Sport SAMBO, articles 23 to 25, with FIAS, International SAMBO Rules: Combat SAMBO, article 23. Checked 15 October 2026. Official documents: FIAS International SAMBO Rules (Sport and Combat).