Is There Riding Time in High School Wrestling?

In high school wrestling, there is a concept known as “riding time”. This refers to the time that one wrestler spends controlling their opponent from a top position. It is an important factor in determining the outcome of a match, as it can contribute to gaining points and ultimately winning the bout.

Understanding Riding Time

Riding time is essentially a measure of dominance in high school wrestling. When a wrestler gains control over their opponent and maintains a top position for an extended period, they are awarded riding time. The purpose of this rule is to encourage wrestlers to actively engage their opponents and prevent stalling.

Key Points about Riding Time:

• Riding time begins when one wrestler gains control over their opponent from the top position.
• The clock continues to run until the opponent escapes or reverses the position.
• Riding time accumulates throughout the match and can be gained incrementally.
• If one wrestler accumulates at least one minute more of riding time than their opponent by the end of the match, they are awarded an additional point.

How Riding Time Impacts Scoring

Riding time plays a crucial role in determining the outcome of a match. It can influence both individual bout scores and team scores in dual meets. Here’s how it affects scoring:

• Bout Scores: If neither wrestler has accumulated any riding time by the end of regulation, no points are awarded for riding time. However, if one wrestler has accumulated at least one minute more of riding time than their opponent, they are awarded an additional point regardless of whether they win or lose the match by other means (e.g., pinning or decision).
• Team Scores: In dual meets, riding time can contribute to the team score. If a wrestler gains riding time by at least one minute more than their opponent, the team they represent will be awarded an additional team point.

Tactics for Accumulating Riding Time

Accumulating riding time requires skill and strategy. Here are some tactics that wrestlers often employ:

• Controlled Top Position: Wrestlers focus on maintaining control over their opponents from the top position by utilizing various holds and techniques.
• Riding Techniques: Wrestlers use different riding techniques such as tilts, breakdowns, and cross-body rides to keep their opponents on the mat and prevent escapes or reversals.
• Pinning Combinations: While accumulating riding time is important, wrestlers also aim to secure a pinfall victory. They may transition from controlling their opponent to executing pinning combinations when opportunities arise.

In conclusion

Riding time is a significant aspect of high school wrestling. It rewards dominant wrestling from the top position and encourages active engagement between wrestlers.

Understanding how it affects scoring can help wrestlers strategize and score crucial points in matches. So remember, as you step onto the mat, keep in mind the importance of riding time!