Does Freestyle Wrestling Help Folkstyle?

Freestyle wrestling and folkstyle wrestling are two different styles of wrestling that have their own unique rules and techniques. Many wrestlers wonder if training in freestyle wrestling can benefit their performance in folkstyle wrestling. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two styles and examine how training in freestyle wrestling can help improve a wrestler’s skills in folkstyle.

Understanding Freestyle Wrestling

Freestyle wrestling is an Olympic sport that emphasizes fast-paced action and dynamic movement. In this style, wrestlers earn points by executing takedowns, exposing their opponent’s back to the mat, or turning them from a standing position to a pinning position. The rules of freestyle wrestling allow for more freedom of movement compared to folkstyle.

The Fundamentals of Folkstyle Wrestling

Folkstyle wrestling is the style most commonly practiced in high schools and colleges in the United States. It focuses on control and positioning, with an emphasis on controlling an opponent on the mat. In folkstyle, wrestlers earn points by executing takedowns, escapes, reversals, near falls, or pins.

The Benefits of Training in Freestyle Wrestling for Folkstyle Wrestlers

While the two styles may have some differences in rules and scoring, training in freestyle wrestling can provide several benefits for folkstyle wrestlers:

1. Improved Takedown Skills

In freestyle wrestling, takedowns play a crucial role as they are worth more points compared to other techniques.

Wrestlers who train in freestyle develop excellent takedown skills and learn how to quickly execute high-scoring moves. These enhanced takedown abilities can greatly benefit folkstyle wrestlers when it comes to initiating attacks and scoring quick points during matches.

2. Enhanced Mat Awareness

In freestyle wrestling, staying in control and avoiding exposure to the opponent’s attacks is essential.

Wrestlers learn to anticipate their opponent’s movements and react quickly, which improves their mat awareness. This heightened sense of awareness can help folkstyle wrestlers in maintaining control, defending against attacks, and executing effective escapes or reversals.

3. Improved Agility and Flexibility

Freestyle wrestling requires wrestlers to constantly move and adjust their position to avoid being scored upon.

This style of wrestling emphasizes agility and flexibility, helping wrestlers develop enhanced speed, balance, and coordination. These attributes are valuable in folkstyle wrestling as they allow wrestlers to effectively evade opponents’ attacks and execute defensive maneuvers.

4. Exposure to Different Techniques

Folkstyle wrestling has its own set of techniques and strategies, but training in freestyle exposes wrestlers to a wider variety of moves and techniques.

This exposure expands a wrestler’s skill set and allows them to develop a more well-rounded approach to the sport. Wrestlers who are familiar with both styles can adapt their techniques based on the situation during a match.

In Conclusion

Training in freestyle wrestling can be highly beneficial for folkstyle wrestlers. The emphasis on takedowns, improved mat awareness, enhanced agility and flexibility, as well as exposure to different techniques all contribute to a wrestler’s overall development. By incorporating freestyle training into their practice regimen, folkstyle wrestlers can gain a competitive edge by expanding their skill set.

So if you are a folkstyle wrestler looking to improve your performance on the mat, consider incorporating freestyle training into your routine. The skills you acquire from freestyle wrestling can enhance your abilities as a folkstyle wrestler and help you excel in both styles.