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Wrestling is a combat sport where opponents grapple with one another, trying to gain the upper hand using various throws and techniques, all while following specific rules.

Wrestling is one of the oldest forms of combat sport, with origins going back at least 15,000 years. Early depictions of wrestlers have been found in cave drawings in France, and Babylonian and Egyptian reliefs show wrestlers using techniques still recognizable today. Wrestling was a prominent part of ancient Greek culture, where it was included in the original Olympic Games in 708 BC as a sport called Pále.

Today, wrestling is practiced around the world in various forms, with two main styles featured in the Olympic Games: Greco-Roman and Freestyle wrestling. In Greco-Roman wrestling, holds below the waist are prohibited, the emphasis being on upper body strength and throws. This style of wrestling was first introduced to the modern Olympic Games in 1896. Freestyle wrestling allows for the use of legs in offense and defense and is the most common style.

Other disciplines include Submission Wrestling, Amateur Pankration, Belt Wrestling Alysh, Pahlavani Wrestling, and Beach Wrestling.

Wrestling competitions can be broadly categorized into amateur and professional forms. Amateur wrestling includes Greco-Roman and Freestyle wrestling, as well as Folkstyle wrestling, which is primarily practiced in the United States at the high school and collegiate levels.

While professional wrestling is often associated with entertainment in the United States, there are competitive forms like Sumo Wrestling in Japan and Lucha Libre in Mexico.

Folk wrestling styles are traditional forms of wrestling that vary by region and culture. For example, Cornish Wrestling originated in Cornwall, England, and involves jacket wrestling without groundwork. Cumberland and Westmorland Wrestling is practiced in northern England and focuses on throws and trips, with wrestlers starting in a backhold position. In Turkish Wrestling, wrestlers douse themselves in olive oil to add a challenge to grappling.

Combat sport wrestling includes all forms of wrestling where the primary goal is to win through physical competition, using techniques and strategies to outmaneuver and overpower the opponent. Matches are governed by strict rules and are judged based on points or by achieving a pin.

Often referred to simply as "pro wrestling," American-style professional wrestling is characterized by its scripted nature and emphasis on entertainment. Organizations like World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) produce shows with predetermined outcomes, focusing on dramatic storylines, character development, and theatrical performances. While professional wrestlers are highly skilled athletes, the matches are choreographed to maximize entertainment value rather than to determine a true athletic victor.

Wrestling as a combat sport has a rich history and several forms, from ancient traditions to modern international competitions. Its competitive nature distinguishes it from the entertainment-focused spectacle of American-style professional wrestling.

Wrestling is sometimes included among the martial arts, but we have elected not to do so. Traditional martial arts generally have deep philosophical and spiritual roots, influenced by Daoism, Zen Buddhism, or other cultural philosophies that emphasize mental and spiritual development, discipline, and a holistic approach. Wrestling, on the other hand, while it requires discipline and mental fortitude, does not typically incorporate other aspects of martial arts as part of its core practice. Martial arts are often characterized by codified systems of techniques, forms, drills, and exercises passed down through generations. Although wrestling has a rich history and various styles, it does not follow a similar codified system of ranks and belts. Its techniques focus more on practical application in competition than a structured progression. Lastly, martial arts often carry significant cultural and historical contexts that reflect the values and traditions of the societies from which they originated and are practiced not only for self-defense but also for cultural preservation and personal development. While wrestling has a long history and cultural significance, particularly in ancient civilizations, its modern practice is more aligned with competitive sport than cultural or philosophical traditions.

This section of our guide focuses on wrestling in all its traditions and forms. Retail websites should be listed in the corresponding Shopping & eCommerce category, however.

 

 

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