Wrestling Styles List

The world of wrestling encompasses various styles that showcase a diverse range of techniques and skills. From freestyle wrestling and Greco-Roman wrestling to folkstyle and catch wrestling, there are numerous types of wrestling to explore. Each style offers its own unique set of rules and strategies, making the sport of wrestling a dynamic and engaging endeavor for athletes and fans alike. Whether you’re drawn to the raw power of freestyle wrestling or the technical prowess of Greco-Roman wrestling, there’s a wrestling style out there for everyone.

Amateur Wrestling
Greco-Roman Wrestling
Freestyle Wrestling
Folkstyle Wrestling (Collegiate wrestling)
Professional Wrestling
Beach Wrestling
Pankration
Sumo Wrestling
Submission Wrestling
Catch Wrestling
Sambo
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
African Wrestling
Kushti Wrestling (Pehlwani)
Korean Ssireum
Lucha Libre (Mexican Wrestling)
Igbo Wrestling (Nigerian Wrestling)
Chinese Wrestling (Shuai Jiao)
Irish Wrestling
Italian Wrestling
Cumberland Wrestling
Cornish Wrestling
Hawaiian Wrestling
Lancashire Wrestling
Scottish Highland Wrestling
Senegalese Wrestling
Devon Wrestling
Judo
Mongolian Wrestling
Finnish Wrestling
Home Wrestling
Collar and Elbow Wrestling
English Wrestling
Youth Wrestling
Turkish Wrestling (Oil Wrestling)
Georgian Wrestling
Russian Wrestling
Arab Wrestling
Egyptian Wrestling
Ancient Greek Wrestling
Canadian Wrestling
Celtic Wrestling
Schwingen (Swiss Wrestling)
Kazakh Wrestling
Ringen (German Wrestling)
Arm Wrestling
Iranian Wrestling
Brazilian Wrestling
Shoot Wrestling
Kurash
Knee Wrestling
Belt Wrestling
Army Wrestling
Hungarian Wrestling
Glima (Nordic Folk Wrestling)

Types of Wrestling:

Wrestling is a diverse and dynamic sport with various styles that have evolved over time. Some of the most popular types of wrestling include freestyle wrestling, which emphasizes speed and agility, and Greco-Roman wrestling, which focuses on upper body techniques and throws. Additionally, folkstyle wrestling is prominent in the United States, known for its emphasis on controlling an opponent on the mat. Other forms, such as sumo wrestling and traditional styles from different cultures, offer unique techniques and strategies. Each type of wrestling requires a different skill set and mindset, making the sport as a whole rich in diversity and complexity.

1. Amateur Wrestling

Amateur wrestling is a popular form of the sport, often practiced in schools and at the collegiate level. It focuses on takedowns and controlling an opponent on the mat, with different rules and weight classes for men and women.

2. Greco-Roman Wrestling

Greco-Roman wrestling is one of the oldest forms of the sport, with a focus on upper body techniques and throws. It is a disciplined form of wrestling with a rich history and tradition.

3. Freestyle Wrestling

Freestyle wrestling is another widely practiced form of the sport, with fewer restrictions on holds and techniques compared to Greco-Roman wrestling. It is a dynamic and fast-paced style that is popular in international competitions.

4. Folkstyle Wrestling (Collegiate wrestling)

Folkstyle wrestling, also known as collegiate wrestling, is a style practiced primarily in the United States. It combines elements of freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling, with a focus on controlling an opponent on the mat.

5. Professional Wrestling

Professional wrestling is entertainment that combines athletic performance with theatrical elements. We know it for its colorful characters and dramatic storylines, attracting a large fan base around the world.

6. Beach Wrestling

Beach wrestling is a style of wrestling practiced on sandy beaches, adding an extra challenge to the sport. It is popular in coastal regions and has gained attention as a fun and casual form of wrestling.

7. Pankration

Pankration is an ancient Greek form of martial arts that combines wrestling and striking techniques. It is a full-contact sport with a focus on both ground and stand-up fighting.

8. Sumo Wrestling

Sumo wrestling is a traditional Japanese form of wrestling with deep cultural and religious significance. It involves two heavyweight competitors trying to force each other out of a circular ring or to the ground.

9. Submission Wrestling

Submission wrestling, also known as submission grappling, focuses on techniques to force an opponent to submit through joint locks or chokeholds. It is popular in mixed martial arts and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

10. Catch Wrestling

Catch wrestling is a style that focuses on controlling an opponent through various holds and submissions, originating in England and later gaining popularity in the United States.

11. Sambo

Sambo is a Russian martial art and combat sport that combines elements of judo and wrestling, with a focus on both standing and ground techniques. We know it for its practical and effective self-defense techniques.

12. Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

Mixed martial arts is a full-contact combat sport that incorporates techniques from various forms of martial arts, including wrestling. It has gained widespread popularity and is known for its diverse fighting styles and strategies.

13. African Wrestling

African wrestling encompasses a variety of traditional wrestling styles practiced across the African continent, each with its own unique techniques and cultural significance.

14. Kushti Wrestling (Pehlwani)

Kushti wrestling, also known as Pehlwani, is a traditional form of wrestling practiced in the Indian subcontinent, with a focus on strength, technique, and discipline.

15. Korean Ssireum

Ssireum is a traditional Korean form of wrestling that has been practiced for centuries, with a focus on grappling and throwing techniques within a circular ring.

16. Lucha Libre (Mexican Wrestling)

Lucha Libre, which translates to “free fighting,” is a style of wrestling that originated in Mexico. Known for its colorful masks and high-flying acrobatics, Lucha Libre has become a cultural phenomenon in Mexico and has gained a dedicated following around the world.

17. Igbo Wrestling (Nigerian Wrestling)

Igbo Wrestling is a traditional form of wrestling practiced by the Igbo people in Nigeria. This style of wrestling is deeply rooted in Igbo culture and is often performed as part of traditional ceremonies and festivals.

18. Chinese Wrestling (Shuai Jiao)

Shuai Jiao, also known as Chinese Wrestling, has a history dating back thousands of years in China. It emphasizes throws, takedowns, and grappling techniques, and is considered one of the oldest martial arts in the world.

19. Irish Wrestling

Irish Wrestling, also known as Collar and Elbow wrestling, is a traditional style of wrestling that has been practiced in Ireland for centuries. It involves gripping the opponent’s collar and elbow to gain leverage and control.

20. Italian Wrestling

Italy has a rich tradition of wrestling, with various regional styles such as Gherco, jacket wrestling. Italian Wrestling emphasizes both standing and ground techniques, making it a well-rounded and versatile style.

21. Cumberland Wrestling

Cumberland Wrestling is a traditional style of wrestling that originated in the Cumberland region of England. It is known for its unique rules and techniques, including the use of the “backhold” grip.

22. Cornish Wrestling

Cornish Wrestling is a centuries-old wrestling style that hails from Cornwall, England. Its emphasis characterized it on throwing and tripping techniques, as well as its distinctive jacket, known as a “guern.”

23. Hawaiian Wrestling

Hawaiian Wrestling, also known as “Hale Koa,” has its roots in the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii. It incorporates elements of traditional Hawaiian martial arts and has a strong emphasis on grappling and submission techniques.

24. Lancashire Wrestling

Lancashire Wrestling is a historic style of folk wrestling that has been practiced in the county of Lancashire in England. It features a unique mixture of standing and ground techniques, making it a diverse and dynamic style.

25. Scottish Highland Wrestling

Scottish Highland Wrestling, also known as “Backhold Wrestling,” is a traditional sport that has been a part of Scottish culture for centuries. It involves competitors grappling while maintaining a hold on each other’s jackets.

26. Senegalese Wrestling

Senegalese Wrestling, known as “Lutte Senegalaise,” is a popular and revered sport in Senegal. It combines elements of traditional wrestling with ritual and ceremony, and is an integral part of Senegalese culture.

27. Devon Wrestling

Devon Wrestling, also known as “Devonshire Wrestling,” is a historic style of wrestling that has been practiced in the county of Devon in England. It is characterized by its emphasis on throws and takedowns, and is often performed at local fairs and festivals.

28. Judo

Judo is a modern martial art that originated in Japan and has since gained worldwide popularity. It emphasizes throwing and grappling techniques, as well as the use of leverage and timing to overcome opponents.

29. Mongolian Wrestling

Mongolian Wrestling, known as “Bökh,” is the national sport of Mongolia and has been practiced for centuries. It is a physically demanding sport that combines elements of wrestling, grappling, and striking techniques.

30. Finnish Wrestling

Finnish Wrestling, also known as “Kesäpaini,” is a traditional style of wrestling that has been practiced in Finland for generations. It involves competitors trying to throw each other onto their backs to score points.

31. Home Wrestling

Home Wrestling, also known as “Glima,” is a traditional style of wrestling from the Nordic countries, particularly Iceland. It emphasizes technique and skill, with competitors attempting to throw each other off balance to gain an advantage.

32. Collar and Elbow Wrestling

Collar and elbow wrestling is a style of wrestling that originated in the United States and was popular during the 19th century. It involves grappling with an emphasis on using the collar and elbow grip to control and maneuver opponents.

33. English Wrestling

English wrestling, also known as Catch-as-Catch-Can wrestling, is a style characterized by its focus on takedowns, joint locks, and pins. It has a rich history in England and has influenced the development of professional wrestling.

34. Youth Wrestling

Youth wrestling refers to wrestling programs and competitions designed for children and teenagers. It serves as a foundational training ground for aspiring wrestlers, teaching them essential skills and fair play.

35. Turkish Wrestling (Oil Wrestling)

Turkish oil wrestling, also known as “Yağlı güreş,” is a traditional sport in Turkey that involves wrestlers dousing themselves in olive oil before engaging in bouts of grappling and takedowns.

36. Georgian Wrestling

Georgian wrestling, known as “Chidaoba,” is an ancient form of folk wrestling that holds a special place in Georgian culture. It emphasizes strength, agility, and technique.

37. Russian Wrestling

Russian wrestling encompasses various styles, including Sambo, Greco-Roman, and freestyle wrestling. Russia has produced many elite wrestlers who have excelled on the international stage.

38. Arab Wrestling

Arab wrestling, or “Al-Azi,” encompasses a range of traditional wrestling styles practiced in the Arab world, each with its own techniques and rules.

39. Egyptian Wrestling

Wrestling has a long history in Egypt, with depictions of ancient Egyptian wrestlers found in hieroglyphics and artifacts. Modern Egyptian wrestling continues to preserve and evolve this rich tradition.

40. Ancient Greek Wrestling

Ancient Greek wrestling, known as “Pale,” was a revered sport in ancient Greece and was featured in the ancient Olympic Games. It emphasized skill, strength, and agility.

41. Canadian Wrestling

Canada has a strong wrestling tradition, with a focus on freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling. The country has produced many accomplished wrestlers who have competed on the world stage.

42. Celtic Wrestling

Celtic wrestling, also known as “Gouren” in Brittany, is a traditional form of wrestling with deep roots in Celtic culture. It emphasizes grappling and throwing techniques.

43. Schwingen (Swiss Wrestling)

Schwingen, or Swiss wrestling, is a folk wrestling style practiced in Switzerland, characterized by its unique rules and the use of sawdust-covered rings for competition.

44. Kazakh Wrestling

Kazakh wrestling, or “Kazakh Kuresi,” is a traditional form of wrestling in Kazakhstan that showcases the country’s rich nomadic heritage and martial traditions.

45. Ringen (German Wrestling)

Ringen, or German wrestling, encompasses various folk wrestling styles practiced in Germany, each with its own regional variations and techniques.

46. Arm Wrestling

Arm wrestling is a popular recreational sport that tests the strength and endurance of participants as they try to force each other’s arm down onto a surface.

47. Iranian Wrestling

Iran has a strong wrestling tradition, with a focus on freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling. Iranian wrestlers have achieved great success in international competitions.

48. Brazilian Wrestling

Brazil has a rich history of wrestling, with a particular emphasis on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a grappling-based martial art that has gained global popularity.

49. Shoot Wrestling

Shoot wrestling, also known as “Pancrase,” is a hybrid combat sport that combines elements of wrestling, submission grappling, and striking.

50. Kurash

Kurash, a traditional Central Asian form of wrestling, is known for its emphasis on throws and grappling techniques. It has been practiced for centuries in countries such as Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

51. Knee Wrestling

Knee wrestling, also known as “Glima” in Nordic countries, is a folk wrestling style that involves competitors trying to force each other to touch the ground with their knee.

52. Belt Wrestling

Belt wrestling, also known as “Gures” in Turkish culture and “Pahlavani” in Iran, is a traditional form of wrestling that involves competitors using a belt wrapped around their waist to gain leverage and control.

53. Army Wrestling

Army wrestling, also known as “Army Hand-to-Hand Combat,” focuses on practical grappling and self-defense techniques used by military personnel.

54. Hungarian Wrestling

Hungary has a strong wrestling tradition, with a focus on Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling. Hungarian wrestlers have achieved success in both Olympic and world competitions.

55. Glima (Nordic Folk Wrestling)

Glima, a form of Nordic folk wrestling, is steeped in the traditions of Scandinavian culture. This style of wrestling emphasizes agility, timing, and balance, making it a fascinating and dynamic form of athletic competition.

FaQs:

What are the different types of wrestling styles?

Wrestling encompasses a diverse range of styles, each with its own unique set of rules and techniques. Some of the most prominent wrestling styles include folkstyle, freestyle, Greco-Roman, and many others practiced across different regions of the world.

How do the rules and techniques vary between wrestling styles?

The rules and techniques in wrestling styles can vary significantly, dictating the allowable moves, scoring systems, and overall gameplay. Understanding these nuances is essential for anyone looking to delve into the world of wrestling.

What are the origins of each wrestling style?

Every wrestling style has a rich historical background that has shaped its development over the years. Learning about the origins of each style provides valuable insights into the cultural and traditional aspects of wrestling.

Which wrestling style is most popular in international competitions?

International competitions serve as a platform for showcasing the prowess of wrestlers from around the globe. Discovering the most popular wrestling style in such competitions offers a glimpse into the global landscape of wrestling.

Are there weight classes in each wrestling style?

Weight classes play a crucial role in wrestling, ensuring fair competition and creating opportunities for wrestlers of varying body types to excel in their respective categories.

What are the key differences between folkstyle, freestyle, and Greco-Roman wrestling?

Folkstyle, freestyle, and Greco-Roman wrestling each have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Understanding these differences is essential for anyone seeking to grasp the intricacies of each style.

How can I get started in learning a specific wrestling style?

Embarking on a journey to learn a specific wrestling style requires guidance and direction. Discovering the initial steps to get started sets the foundation for a fulfilling wrestling experience.

Are there any unique clothing or gear requirements for each wrestling style?

Different wrestling styles may have specific clothing and gear requirements, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the standards set for each style.

What are the main objectives of each wrestling style?

Understanding the primary objectives of each wrestling style sheds light on the overarching goals and strategies that wrestlers aim to achieve during their matches.

How are points scored in different wrestling styles?

Scoring systems vary across different wrestling styles, with specific criteria for earning points and achieving victory. Unraveling the intricacies of scoring adds depth to the understanding of each wrestling style.

Conclusion

Wrestling encompasses a wide variety of styles and techniques, each with its own unique set of rules and traditions. Whether it’s the high-flying action of professional wrestling, the technical prowess of amateur wrestling, or the cultural significance of traditional wrestling styles from around the world, there is wrestling for everyone to enjoy. The diversity and athleticism of wrestling make it a truly captivating and enduring sport that continues to inspire and entertain people of all ages.