DEFINITION OF WRESTLING

 

Wrestling is a combat sport and form of entertainment that involves two individuals, known as wrestlers, engaging in physical competition. The objective of wrestling varies depending on the specific style or rules of the match, but it generally involves trying to gain control over the opponent through grappling techniques.

There are several different styles of wrestling, each with its own set of rules and traditions. Some of the most common styles include:

1. Folkstyle Wrestling: Primarily practiced in the United States, this style is popular in high schools and colleges. It emphasizes controlling the opponent on the mat and includes various pinning and scoring techniques.

2. Freestyle Wrestling: An Olympic sport, freestyle wrestling is practiced worldwide. It allows for a wider range of techniques and emphasizes throws, takedowns, and exposure points.

3. Greco-Roman Wrestling: Also an Olympic sport, Greco-Roman wrestling prohibits holds below the waist and focuses on upper body throws and takedowns.

4. Professional Wrestling: As mentioned earlier, this is the form of wrestling associated with scripted storylines and theatrical performances for entertainment purposes.

In all styles of wrestling, athletes use a combination of throws, takedowns, pins, and submissions to gain control and achieve victory over their opponent. The sport requires strength, agility, technique, and mental fortitude. It has a long history, with evidence of wrestling competitions dating back thousands of years to ancient civilizations.

Whether practiced as a competitive sport or performed for entertainment, wrestling remains a physically demanding and culturally significant activity in various parts of the world.