What Style of Wrestling Is Used in Middle School?By Coder| September 1, 2023 Wrestling Middle school wrestling is a popular sport that introduces young athletes to the world of competitive wrestling. It serves as a stepping stone for those who wish to pursue the sport at higher levels. In middle school wrestling, athletes learn the fundamental techniques and strategies necessary for success on the mat. Styles of Wrestling In middle school, wrestlers primarily compete in two different styles: folkstyle and freestyle. These styles have their own unique rules and techniques, providing wrestlers with a diverse skill set. Folkstyle Wrestling Folkstyle wrestling is the most commonly practiced style in middle school. It is also the style used in high school and collegiate wrestling. In folkstyle, the objective is to gain control over your opponent and score points through takedowns, escapes, reversals, and near falls. Techniques Used in Folkstyle Wrestling Takedowns: Takedowns involve bringing your opponent from a standing position to the mat while maintaining control. Escapes: Escapes are used when you are on the bottom position and need to get out from under your opponent. Reversals: Reversals occur when you are on the bottom and manage to gain control over your opponent. Near Falls: Near falls occur when you almost pin your opponent’s shoulders to the mat but fall short of a full pin. Freestyle Wrestling Freestyle wrestling is another style that middle school wrestlers may have the opportunity to compete in. This style is more often seen at international competitions such as the Olympics. Freestyle differs from folkstyle in several ways, including scoring methods and rules surrounding exposure points. Differences Between Folkstyle and Freestyle Scoring: In freestyle, points are awarded for exposure, which is when your opponent’s back is exposed to the mat. Out-of-Bounds: In freestyle, wrestlers can score points even if they go out of bounds during a takedown or a throw. Caution and Warning System: Freestyle wrestling has a caution and warning system in place to penalize illegal actions or lack of action. Training and Preparation To excel in middle school wrestling, athletes must dedicate themselves to training and preparation. This includes regular practice sessions focusing on technique development, strength training to build physical fitness, and flexibility exercises to improve agility on the mat. Finding Success in Middle School Wrestling To find success in middle school wrestling, it is important for athletes to stay committed to their training. Consistency, hard work, and dedication are key factors that contribute to improvement and growth as a wrestler. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and getting enough rest are crucial for optimal performance. In conclusion, middle school wrestling offers young athletes an opportunity to learn and compete in the sport of wrestling. By understanding the different styles used, such as folkstyle and freestyle, wrestlers can develop a well-rounded skill set. With proper training and dedication, middle school wrestlers can lay the foundation for future success in high school and beyond.
