What Are the IHSA Wrestling Weight Classes?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling Wrestling is a sport that requires athletes to compete in specific weight classes. This ensures fairness and safety on the mat. The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) has established a set of weight classes for high school wrestling competitions. Let’s take a closer look at what these weight classes are and how they impact the sport. Understanding IHSA Wrestling Weight Classes The IHSA has divided wrestlers into 14 different weight classes, ranging from the lightest to the heaviest. Each weight class has a maximum weight limit that competitors must not exceed. The 14 IHSA Wrestling Weight Classes: 106 pounds: This weight class is for the lightest wrestlers. 113 pounds: Wrestlers in this class are slightly heavier than those in the previous class. 120 pounds: Competitors in this class have a maximum weight of 120 pounds. 126 pounds: Wrestlers in this class weigh up to 126 pounds. 132 pounds: This weight class includes wrestlers who weigh no more than 132 pounds. 138 pounds: Competitors in this class can weigh up to 138 pounds. 145 pounds: Wrestlers in this class have a maximum weight of 145 pounds. 152 pounds: This weight class includes athletes weighing up to 152 pounds. 160 pounds: Wrestlers in this class can weigh no more than 160 pounds. Note: The weight classes from 170 pounds to 285 pounds increase by 5 pounds each. 170 pounds: This weight class includes athletes weighing up to 170 pounds. 182 pounds: Wrestlers in this class can weigh no more than 182 pounds. 195 pounds: This weight class is for athletes weighing up to 195 pounds. 220 pounds: Wrestlers in this class can weigh no more than 220 pounds. 285 pounds: This is the heaviest weight class, with a maximum weight of 285 pounds. The Importance of Weight Classes The establishment of weight classes in wrestling is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures fairness by pitting wrestlers against opponents who are of similar size and strength. This creates a level playing field and allows athletes to compete without drastic disadvantages due to size differences. Secondly, weight classes help maintain the safety of the wrestlers. Matches between individuals with significant disparities in size can lead to an increased risk of injury. By placing competitors in appropriate weight classes, the likelihood of such injuries decreases, promoting a safer environment for all participants. Weigh-Ins and Certification Prior to wrestling matches, athletes must undergo weigh-ins to verify their eligibility for their chosen weight class. These weigh-ins are typically conducted before tournaments or dual meets and involve wrestlers stepping on a scale to determine their current weight. If they exceed the maximum limit for their intended class, they may be required to either forfeit or move up to a higher weight class where they meet the criteria. Certification processes may also be in place to ensure wrestlers meet the weight requirements throughout the season. This prevents athletes from rapidly losing or gaining weight to manipulate their class and gain an unfair advantage. Conclusion The IHSA wrestling weight classes provide structure, fairness, and safety to high school wrestling competitions. By dividing wrestlers into specific weight categories, the sport creates an environment where athletes can compete against opponents of similar size and strength. It is important for wrestlers to understand these weight classes and adhere to the established regulations for a successful and enjoyable wrestling experience.
