What Is the Difference Between Freestyle Wrestling and Folkstyle?By Coder| August 31, 2023 Wrestling What Is the Difference Between Freestyle Wrestling and Folkstyle? Wrestling is a combat sport that has been practiced for centuries in various forms. Two popular styles of wrestling are freestyle wrestling and folkstyle wrestling. While they have similarities, there are also key differences that set them apart. The Basics In both freestyle wrestling and folkstyle wrestling, the objective is to pin your opponent’s shoulders to the mat or score points by executing takedowns, escapes, and reversals. However, the rules and scoring systems differ between the two styles. Freestyle Wrestling Freestyle wrestling is an Olympic discipline and is practiced internationally. It emphasizes quickness, agility, technique, and explosiveness. In freestyle wrestling, wrestlers can score points by executing a variety of moves such as takedowns, throws, and exposure techniques. Takedowns: Wrestlers earn two points for successfully taking their opponent down to the mat from a standing position. Exposure Techniques: If a wrestler exposes their opponent’s back to the mat at a 45-degree angle or less (known as near fall), they earn two or three points depending on the duration of exposure. Reversals: If a wrestler reverses their opponent from a disadvantageous position to gain control on top, they earn one point. Folkstyle Wrestling Folkstyle wrestling is primarily practiced in the United States at high school and college levels. It focuses on controlling an opponent through various positions while emphasizing endurance, strength, technique, and strategy. Folkstyle matches are usually longer than freestyle matches. Takedowns: Similar to freestyle wrestling, takedowns are worth two points. Escapes: If a wrestler escapes from the bottom position and gains a neutral standing position, they earn one point. Reversals: Reversals in folkstyle wrestling are worth two points. If a wrestler reverses their opponent from the bottom position to gain control on top, they earn two points. Near Fall: Folkstyle wrestling has a near fall scenario similar to freestyle. If a wrestler exposes their opponent’s back to the mat for a specific duration of time (usually two seconds), they earn two or three points. Uniform and Mat Protocols In freestyle wrestling, wrestlers wear tight-fitting singlets made of Lycra or similar material. They also wear ear guards to protect against cauliflower ear. The wrestling mat used in freestyle matches is covered with a non-slip surface. In folkstyle wrestling, competitors wear tight-fitting uniforms that include shorts and a jersey or compression shirt. Headgear is also worn to prevent injuries. The mats used in folkstyle matches have more friction for better grip and control. Tactics and Strategies The different rules and scoring systems in freestyle and folkstyle wrestling lead to variations in tactics and strategies employed by wrestlers in each style. In freestyle, wrestlers often focus on explosive movements, high amplitude throws, and quick transitions between offensive and defensive techniques. The emphasis is on scoring as many points as possible within short periods of time. In contrast, folkstyle wrestlers tend to prioritize controlling their opponents through various positions while looking for opportunities to score points. They use strategies that involve riding, turning, and pinning their opponents for maximum point advantage. Conclusion In summary, freestyle wrestling and folkstyle wrestling are two distinct styles of wrestling with different rules, scoring systems, uniforms, mat protocols, and tactics. While freestyle is an international Olympic discipline known for its quickness and explosiveness, folkstyle is primarily practiced in the United States at the high school and college levels with an emphasis on control and endurance. Whether you prefer the international flair of freestyle or the strategic aspects of folkstyle, both styles offer unique challenges and opportunities for wrestlers to showcase their skills.
