What Are the 3 Styles of Wrestling?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling Wrestling is a popular combat sport that has been practiced for centuries. It involves various techniques and styles that require strength, agility, and strategy. In this article, we will explore the three main styles of wrestling: folkstyle, freestyle, and Greco-Roman. Folkstyle Wrestling Folkstyle wrestling, also known as collegiate wrestling, is primarily practiced in the United States. It is characterized by its emphasis on control and mat work. The objective in folkstyle wrestling is to gain control over the opponent and secure a pin, exposing their shoulders to the mat for a certain period of time. In folkstyle wrestling, there are specific rules regarding takedowns, escapes, reversals, and near falls that earn points. Wrestlers must also be mindful of out-of-bounds positions and illegal moves to avoid penalties. Key Points about Folkstyle Wrestling: Control: Folkstyle wrestling emphasizes controlling your opponent both on your feet and on the mat. Pinning: The ultimate goal in folkstyle wrestling is to secure a pin by exposing your opponent’s shoulders to the mat for a certain period of time. Points: Points are awarded for various moves such as takedowns, escapes, reversals, and near falls. Freestyle Wrestling Freestyle wrestling is an international style of wrestling that is practiced worldwide. It is known for its dynamic and fast-paced nature. Unlike folkstyle wrestling which focuses on control and pinning, freestyle wrestling prioritizes explosive takedowns and high-scoring maneuvers. In freestyle wrestling, wrestlers aim to score points by executing complex throws, takedowns, and exposure techniques. The objective is to outscore the opponent within a specified time frame, rather than seeking a pin. Key Points about Freestyle Wrestling: Takedowns: Freestyle wrestling places a strong emphasis on executing explosive and high-scoring takedowns. Exposure Techniques: Wrestlers can earn points by exposing their opponent’s back to the mat. No Pins: Unlike folkstyle wrestling, freestyle wrestling does not focus on pinning the opponent but rather on accumulating points. Greco-Roman Wrestling Greco-Roman wrestling is another international style of wrestling that has its roots in ancient Greece and Rome. It is similar to freestyle wrestling but with one significant difference: wrestlers are not allowed to attack or grab their opponents below the waist. In Greco-Roman wrestling, athletes primarily use upper body techniques like throws and holds to gain control over their opponents. The objective remains the same as freestyle wrestling – accumulate points through takedowns, throws, and exposure techniques. Key Points about Greco-Roman Wrestling: No Leg Attacks: Wrestlers are prohibited from attacking or grabbing their opponents’ legs in Greco-Roman wrestling. Upper Body Techniques: Focus is placed on executing throws and holds using the upper body. Scores Based on Technique: Points are awarded for successful takedowns, throws, and exposing the opponent’s back to the mat. In conclusion, folkstyle, freestyle, and Greco-Roman wrestling are three distinct styles of wrestling, each with its own rules and objectives. Whether you prefer the control-oriented nature of folkstyle, the explosive takedowns of freestyle, or the upper body techniques of Greco-Roman, wrestling offers a rich and diverse range of styles for athletes to explore.
