Two competitors engage in close combat, each attempting to take the other to the mat and gain control through holds, throws, and pins. That sport is wrestling. It is one of the oldest forms of organized athletic competition.

Olympic styles include freestyle and Greco-Roman, the latter prohibiting holds below the waist. Folkstyle and various traditional forms exist worldwide. Matches are contested on a circular mat and scored by takedowns, exposures, and control. A pin ends the match immediately.

Training develops strength, anaerobic endurance, technique, and the ability to impose one’s will under fatigue. Weight classes ensure competitive fairness. The intensity of wrestling is continuous; there is little opportunity to hide. Respect between competitors is traditional after the final whistle.

Wrestling strips combat down to leverage, balance, and relentless effort.