What Are the 3 Types of Wrestling?

Wrestling is a popular combat sport that has its roots in ancient times. Over the years, different styles of wrestling have emerged, each with its own set of rules and techniques. In this article, we will explore the three main types of wrestling: folkstyle, freestyle, and Greco-Roman.

Folkstyle Wrestling

Folkstyle wrestling, also known as collegiate wrestling, is predominantly practiced in the United States. It is most commonly seen in high schools and colleges across the country. This style focuses on controlling your opponent and gaining points through takedowns, escapes, reversals, near falls, and pins.

One of the key elements of folkstyle wrestling is the emphasis on maintaining control over your opponent. Wrestlers score points by executing takedowns, where they bring their opponent from a standing position to the mat while maintaining control. Escapes and reversals are also rewarded with points as they demonstrate a wrestler’s ability to break free from an opponent’s grip or reverse a disadvantageous position.

Near falls are another scoring opportunity in folkstyle wrestling. When a wrestler manages to hold their opponent’s shoulders or back close to the mat for several seconds without achieving a pinfall, they earn near-fall points. The ultimate goal in folkstyle wrestling is to secure a pinfall by holding both of your opponent’s shoulders on the mat for at least two seconds.

Freestyle Wrestling

Freestyle wrestling is an international style that allows for more dynamic and acrobatic maneuvers compared to folkstyle. It is practiced worldwide and is featured in prestigious tournaments such as the Olympic Games. Freestyle wrestlers focus on executing explosive takedowns and exposing their opponents’ backs for maximum point accumulation.

In freestyle wrestling, wrestlers aim to score points through takedowns similar to those seen in folkstyle wrestling. However, unlike folkstyle where control is crucial, freestyle wrestling places more emphasis on maintaining exposure. When a wrestler manages to expose their opponent’s back to the mat, they are awarded points.

Freestyle wrestling also allows for more flexibility in terms of attacks and techniques. Wrestlers can employ high-amplitude throws, leg attacks, and gut wrenches to gain an advantage over their opponents. The fast-paced nature of freestyle wrestling makes it an exciting and visually captivating sport to watch.

Greco-Roman Wrestling

Greco-Roman wrestling is another international style that places restrictions on attacking below the waist. This style focuses primarily on upper body throws and holds. It is named after the ancient Roman and Greek styles of wrestling, which served as its inspiration.

In Greco-Roman wrestling, wrestlers are forbidden from using their legs to trip or lift their opponents. The objective is to execute throws that involve using only the upper body while maintaining a firm grip on your opponent. This style requires immense strength, technique, and strategy.

Greco-Roman wrestlers aim to score points by executing clean throws where their opponent’s back lands on the mat while maintaining control. Unlike freestyle wrestling, exposing an opponent’s back does not result in points in Greco-Roman.

Conclusion

In summary, the three main types of wrestling are folkstyle, freestyle, and Greco-Roman. Folkstyle emphasizes control and pinning your opponent for victory.

Freestyle encourages dynamic takedowns and exposing your opponent’s back for point accumulation. Greco-Roman focuses on upper body throws without allowing leg attacks.

Each style has its own unique set of rules and techniques but shares a common goal: outmaneuvering and overpowering your opponent within the confines of the sport. Whether you prefer the technicality of folkstyle or the explosive nature of freestyle and Greco-Roman, wrestling offers a captivating display of skill, athleticism, and strategy.