How Many Types of Wrestling Do We Have?By Coder| August 31, 2023 Wrestling How Many Types of Wrestling Do We Have? Wrestling is a popular combat sport that has been practiced for centuries. It involves grappling techniques, throws, and holds to overpower an opponent. Over time, different styles of wrestling have emerged, each with its own rules and techniques. In this article, we will explore the various types of wrestling and their unique characteristics. Folkstyle Wrestling Folkstyle wrestling, also known as collegiate wrestling, is widely practiced in the United States. It is the primary style used in high schools and colleges across the country. Folkstyle wrestling emphasizes control and endurance. The objective is to pin your opponent’s shoulders to the mat for a specific amount of time or accumulate points through takedowns, escapes, and reversals. Greco-Roman Wrestling Greco-Roman wrestling is one of the oldest styles of wrestling in the world. It originated in ancient Greece and was later popularized in Europe. In Greco-Roman wrestling, athletes are only allowed to use their upper bodies and must avoid Targeting their opponent’s legs. The goal is to throw your opponent onto their back or pin them to the mat. Freestyle Wrestling Freestyle wrestling is another internationally recognized style practiced in many countries worldwide. Unlike Greco-Roman wrestling, freestyle allows competitors to use both their upper bodies and legs for offensive and defensive moves. This style encourages dynamic movements such as high amplitude throws and acrobatic techniques. Sumo Wrestling Sumo wrestling originated in Japan and is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. It differs significantly from other styles as it focuses on pushing or throwing opponents out of a circular ring called a dohyo. Sumo wrestlers, known as rikishi, are typically large and possess immense strength. The sport carries many traditions and rituals that add to its uniqueness. Professional Wrestling Professional wrestling is a form of sports entertainment that combines elements of athletics, theater, and storytelling. While it shares some similarities with other wrestling styles, it is primarily performed for entertainment purposes rather than competitive sport. Professional wrestlers often portray fictional characters and engage in scripted matches with predetermined outcomes. Women’s Wrestling In recent years, women’s wrestling has gained significant recognition and popularity worldwide. Women compete in various styles mentioned earlier, including folkstyle, freestyle, and Greco-Roman. With women’s wrestling being included in the Olympic Games since 2004, more opportunities have emerged for female athletes to showcase their skills on a global stage. In Conclusion Wrestling is a diverse sport with multiple styles catering to different preferences and cultures. Whether you prefer the technicality of folkstyle or the high-flying action of freestyle, there is a style of wrestling for everyone. Each style brings its own set of challenges and strategies for competitors to master. So go ahead and explore the world of wrestling – there’s always something new to learn!
