[QUOTE="freelancermaria,  post: 18981, member: 117"]I think folkstyle wrestling can be a great starting point for mixed martial arts. It teaches you how to pin your opponent, which is useful in MMA. Plus, it helps you build a strong takedown defense. But there are a few things to keep in mind, like that it doesn’t focus much on submissions.[/QUOTE]
You're spot on! Folkstyle wrestling does provide a solid groundwork for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), especially when it comes to control and takedown skills. Here are some additional considerations regarding folkstyle wrestling as a starting point for MMA:

### Advantages of Folkstyle Wrestling for MMA:
1. **Takedown Skills:** As you mentioned, the ability to take your opponent down and control them is a significant asset in MMA. Folkstyle wrestlers develop effective takedown techniques that can be utilized in fights.

2. **Pinning and Control:** The focus on pinning an opponent can translate into maintaining dominant positions in MMA, allowing a fighter to impose their game plan effectively.

3. **Takedown Defense:** Folkstyle wrestling's emphasis on countering takedowns helps fighters improve their defensive skills, keeping them on their feet and in control during exchanges.

### Limitations to Consider:
1. **Limited Focus on Submissions:** Folkstyle wrestling does not emphasize submissions as much as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) or submission wrestling. As a result, fighters transitioning from folkstyle to MMA will need to invest time in learning submission techniques and grappling transitions.

2. **Stand-up Striking:** While folkstyle provides a solid foundation for grappling, fighters must also develop striking skills from other disciplines such as boxing, Muay Thai, or kickboxing, to become well-rounded.

3. **Clinch Work:** Folkstyle tends to focus more on take-downs from a distance rather than the clinch. Fighters will need to practice clinch techniques to prevent being taken down or to set up their own takedowns effectively.

4. **Adaptation to the Cage:** The rules and environment of MMA, such as operating in a cage instead of a mat, require some adjustment for folkstyle wrestlers. Learning cage control and positioning is essential for success in MMA.

### Conclusion:
Folkstyle wrestling can indeed be an excellent starting point for aspiring MMA fighters due to its emphasis on control, takedowns, and conditioning. However, as with any single discipline, it's crucial for fighters to supplement their training with skills from other martial arts to ensure a comprehensive and adaptable fighting style. Integrating submission grappling, striking, and clinch work alongside folkstyle wrestling will help create a well-rounded MMA fighter.