Wrestling is a sport that dates back thousands of years across a number of cultures. Its long history has been depicted and documented in art, mythology and literature for millennia. Enjoyed by the ancient Greeks, Chinese, and Egyptians to name a few, wrestling may in fact be one of the oldest types of athletic competitions. Over time, safety measures have been taken to protect the athletes. The most noticeable safety implementations have been the usage of head gear and wrestling mats.
History of Wrestling
Wrestling predates the Olympics, as ancient cave drawings depict wrestlers as far back as 3000 B.C., according to the International Federation of Associated Wrestling StylesWrestling. In 708 B.C., wrestling was introduced to the Olympics. Currently, the hundreds of wrestling styles, including most popular Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling.
Composition of Wrestling Mats
Wrestling mats are made of tough, durable vinyl with non-woven polyester that's bonded to foam, according to Dollamur, the official manufacturer of wrestling mats for USA Wrestling. These mats are designed to absorb shock, maintain resiliency, and never crack, peel, shrink or harden. Wrestling mats can be purchased for official athletic competitions or in the home.
Cleaning Wrestling Mats
Making sure a mat stays clean not only ensures the integrity of the sport but also helps to prevent illness to athletes through the spread of bacteria and other communicable diseases. According to the Memorial Health Alliance, unclean mats can host a variety of diseases and bacteria ranging from athletes foot to herpes. Disinfecting mats properly can significantly help to reduce the likelihood of wrestlers contracting such diseases.
Official Dimensions of Wrestling Mats
Depending on what level wrestlers are competing at, wrestling mats may vary. According to FILA, mats at the national or international level are required to be brand new and should be between 5 and 7 cm thick and 12 meters by 12 meters. On the collegiate level, mats are required to be 1 to 4 inches thick and 42 feet by 42 feet. High School level wrestling mats are also required to be 1 to 4 inches thick but only 38 feet by 38 feet.
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