1. Wrestling With the Changing Styles
The traditional wrestling uniform is a singlet, a one-piece outfit cut similar to a tank top attached to shorts. There are now two piece uniforms available similar to those commonly seen in biking competitions. Coaches are up in arms over the change, claiming the singlet is tradition and makes wrestling what it is. Others say that many kids who want to take up wrestling choose not to because the uniform is so un-cool. Made with antimicrobial technology, it's thought that the two-piece uniform may reduce the skin infections common among wrestlers. Other aspects of the uniform remain the same, including the safety helmets and regulation boots.
2. Age of Consent
There are some natural entry points for wrestling, such as when it's offered in grade school or junior high. Some kids can start in high school and be successful, but their chances are slim since most of the competition will have a few years of training under their belt. For small kids, parents should look for youth wrestling clubs that emphasize the fun while downplaying the aggressive side of wrestling. As the kids mature, the competitive nature of the sport will keep pace with their development.
3. Fit for Life
Wrestling is a sport that requires unilateral physical fitness. Along with sports like gymnastics and swimming, wrestling exercises engage every major muscle group in the body. In addition, wrestling combines balance and agility with strength and determination. It teaches the athlete confidence, self-reliance and grit: a wrestler's determination is as important as his skill. Many wrestlers win simply because they refuse to quit, a skill that will benefit the athlete long after his wrestling career has ended.
4. Wrestling With Weight
It's common misconception that wrestlers binge, refuse to eat and spend hours sweating away the water in their bodies to make weight. In fact, weigh-ins don't occur in wrestling until the high school and college level of competition, and coaches are trained to spot kids who struggle with their weight and help them move to the appropriate weight class. Weight control is taught through maintenance with a focus on good health. Athletes who struggle to make weight aren't able to wrestle successfully, making it unlikely an athlete would continue such dangerous habits.
5. Professional Wrestling is Professionally Staged
Professional Wrestling is not the wrestling sport that kids participate in throughout their school and collegiate years. While most professional wrestlers are physically fit, they perform a well-rehearsed and strictly choreographed routine, much like dancers. Each professional wrestler knows exactly where the other wrestler will place his hands and feet at any given time. Professional wrestling while fun to watch, but has little to do with the sport of wrestling.
Member Comments