What Are the 2 Types of Olympic Wrestling?

When it comes to the Olympics, one of the most exciting and physically demanding sports is wrestling. Wrestling has been a part of the Olympic Games since ancient times and continues to captivate audiences with its intense action and display of strength and skill. In this article, we will explore the two types of Olympic wrestling: freestyle wrestling and Greco-Roman wrestling.

Freestyle Wrestling

Freestyle wrestling is a type of wrestling that allows wrestlers to use both their arms and legs to execute moves and holds. It is often considered more dynamic and fast-paced compared to Greco-Roman wrestling.

Rules

In freestyle wrestling, wrestlers can score points by executing takedowns, reversals, escapes, exposure of their opponent’s back or shoulders to the mat, and pinning their opponent’s shoulders to the mat for a certain amount of time.

Takedowns: A takedown is when a wrestler brings their opponent from a standing position to the mat while maintaining control. This move is worth 2 points.

Reversals: A reversal occurs when a wrestler gains control over their opponent from a defensive position on the bottom. This move also earns 2 points.

Escapes: An escape happens when a wrestler breaks free from their opponent’s hold while being on the bottom position. It awards 1 point.

Exposure: Exposure refers to when a wrestler’s back or shoulders come in contact with the mat for a brief moment without being pinned. Depending on the duration, exposure can earn 2 or 4 points.

Pinning: The ultimate goal in freestyle wrestling is to pin your opponent’s shoulders to the mat. If a wrestler achieves this, the match is over, and they win by fall.

Greco-Roman Wrestling

Greco-Roman wrestling is another style of wrestling that has its roots in ancient Greece and is known for its emphasis on upper body moves and throws. Unlike freestyle wrestling, Greco-Roman wrestlers are not allowed to use their legs actively for offense.

Rules

In Greco-Roman wrestling, wrestlers score points through takedowns, reversals, exposure, and pinning their opponents.

Takedowns: Similar to freestyle wrestling, a takedown in Greco-Roman wrestling earns 2 points when a wrestler brings their opponent from a standing position to the mat while maintaining control.

Reversals: Reversals in Greco-Roman wrestling are worth 1 point. They occur when a wrestler gains control over their opponent from a defensive position on the bottom.

Exposure: In Greco-Roman wrestling, exposure refers to when a wrestler’s back comes into contact with the mat for a brief moment without being pinned. Depending on the duration of exposure, it can earn 2 or 4 points.

Pinning: Just like in freestyle wrestling, pinning your opponent’s shoulders to the mat results in an immediate victory by fall.

Differences Between Freestyle and Greco-Roman Wrestling

• In freestyle wrestling, wrestlers can use both their arms and legs for offense, while in Greco-Roman wrestling, only upper body moves are allowed.
• The scoring system differs slightly between the two styles. For example, reversals are worth 2 points in freestyle wrestling but only 1 point in Greco-Roman wrestling.
• Freestyle wrestling is often considered more dynamic and fast-paced, while Greco-Roman wrestling emphasizes throws and upper body control.

In conclusion, both freestyle wrestling and Greco-Roman wrestling provide thrilling displays of athleticism and strategy. Whether it’s the dynamic nature of freestyle or the technical mastery of Greco-Roman, Olympic wrestling never fails to captivate audiences worldwide.