What Type of Wrestling Is at the Olympics?By Coder| August 31, 2023 Wrestling Wrestling is a time-honored sport that has been a part of the Olympic Games since ancient times. It is a physically demanding sport that requires strength, technique, and mental toughness. In this article, we will explore the different types of wrestling that are contested at the Olympics. Freestyle Wrestling: Freestyle wrestling is one of the two main wrestling disciplines at the Olympic Games. It is characterized by its dynamic and acrobatic nature, allowing wrestlers to use their whole body to attack and defend. In freestyle wrestling, points are awarded for various actions such as takedowns, throws, and exposure of an opponent’s back to the mat. Some key features of freestyle wrestling include: Wrestlers compete in weight classes to ensure fair matchups. Bouts consist of three periods, each lasting two minutes. Competitors aim to score points by executing successful takedowns or exposing their opponent’s back. The wrestler who accumulates more points by the end of the match wins. Greco-Roman Wrestling: Greco-Roman wrestling is another style that is featured at the Olympic Games. Unlike freestyle wrestling, Greco-Roman does not allow wrestlers to attack or hold below the waist. This emphasizes upper body techniques and throws, making it a highly strategic form of wrestling. Here are some key aspects of Greco-Roman wrestling: Only upper body moves are permitted; holds below the waist are strictly prohibited. The goal is to pin your opponent’s shoulders to the mat or score points through throws and other moves. The same weight class system as freestyle wrestling is used for fair competition. Women’s Freestyle Wrestling: Women’s freestyle wrestling was introduced to the Olympic Games in 2004, marking a significant milestone for female athletes in the sport. It is similar to men’s freestyle wrestling in terms of rules and scoring but is exclusively competed by women. Here are some key features of women’s freestyle wrestling: Female wrestlers compete in weight classes, just like their male counterparts. Matches consist of three periods, each lasting two minutes. Similar to freestyle wrestling, points are awarded for takedowns, throws, and exposing an opponent’s back. The Olympic Wrestling Program: At the Olympic Games, both men and women compete in freestyle wrestling. However, only men participate in Greco-Roman wrestling. Each discipline has multiple weight classes, ensuring that wrestlers of various sizes have the opportunity to showcase their skills on the world stage. Conclusion: Wrestling at the Olympics encompasses three disciplines: freestyle wrestling for both men and women and Greco-Roman wrestling exclusively for men. Each style has its own unique rules and techniques that test the physical prowess and mental fortitude of the athletes. Whether it’s the dynamic nature of freestyle or the strategic aspects of Greco-Roman, Olympic wrestling never fails to captivate audiences worldwide.