How Many Wrestling Are There?By Coder| August 31, 2023 Wrestling Wrestling is a popular sport that has been around for centuries. It has evolved and branched out into various forms, each with its own unique rules, techniques, and characteristics. In this article, we will explore the different types of wrestling and how they differ from each other. Freestyle Wrestling Freestyle wrestling is one of the most widely recognized forms of wrestling. It is an Olympic sport that allows a wide range of techniques and moves. In freestyle wrestling, competitors can use both their arms and legs to attack and defend. The objective is to pin the opponent’s shoulders to the mat or score points through takedowns and throws. Key Features: Highly Dynamic: Freestyle wrestling involves quick movements, agility, and explosive actions. Versatile Techniques: Wrestlers in this style can execute various throws, holds, and submissions. No Holds Barred: Unlike some other forms of wrestling, freestyle allows for more freedom in attacking and defending. Greco-Roman Wrestling Greco-Roman wrestling is another Olympic discipline that originated from ancient Greece. Unlike freestyle wrestling, it prohibits the use of leg attacks or holds below the waist. Only the upper body can be used to attack or defend in this form of wrestling. Key Features: No Leg Attacks: Greco-Roman wrestlers rely solely on throws, clinches, and upper body techniques to gain an advantage over their opponents. Precision Technique: Due to the restrictions on lower body moves, Greco-Roman wrestling requires excellent upper body technique and positioning. Intense Physicality: This style demands great strength, endurance, and explosive power. Sumo Wrestling Sumo wrestling originated in Japan and is a traditional form of wrestling with deep cultural roots. It is known for its unique rules, rituals, and the large size of its competitors. The goal in sumo wrestling is to force your opponent out of the ring or make them touch the ground with any part of their body other than the soles of their feet. Key Features: Weight and Size: Sumo wrestlers are often large and have a unique physique, which is essential for this style of wrestling. Rituals and Traditions: Sumo has a rich cultural heritage with various ceremonies before and after matches. Strategy: Despite its seemingly straightforward objective, sumo involves complex strategies and techniques to outmaneuver opponents. Folkstyle Wrestling Folkstyle wrestling, also known as collegiate or scholastic wrestling, is primarily practiced in the United States. It combines elements from both freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling but has certain unique rules. Unlike freestyle or Greco-Roman, folkstyle emphasizes control on the mat through various pinning combinations. Key Features: Pinning Emphasis: Folkstyle wrestlers earn points for maintaining control over their opponents on the mat through pins or near-falls. Bonus Points: Folkstyle offers additional points for executing specific moves or achieving certain positions. Takedown Focus: Wrestlers in this style often engage in intense battles for takedowns, as it is a crucial aspect of scoring. These are just a few examples of the many types of wrestling practiced around the world. Each style has its own unique rules, techniques, and cultural significance. Whether you prefer the versatility of freestyle wrestling, the upper body dominance of Greco-Roman, the tradition of sumo, or the control-focused folkstyle, wrestling offers a diverse range of styles to suit different preferences and skill sets.