The truth is that between wrestlers of equal strength, the athlete with the better technique is likely to win. However, a strong wrestler is equally likely to overcome a weak wrestler. The weight classes in sanctioned wrestling competition make the strength gambit more difficult, since the classes tend to group wrestlers of similar size and strength together. If you want to win at wrestling based on brute strength, you have a long and difficult -- but not impossible -- road ahead of you.
Step 1
Cut your weight. If you wrestle one or two classes below your natural body weight, you will be larger -- and stronger -- than your competition. Note that many wrestling conferences have safety regulations that limit the degree to which you can use this strategy.
Step 2
Get stronger, but be smart about it. Heavy sessions on the weights are likely to add muscle bulk and weight to your frame, meaning you're undercutting your efforts to wrestle with weaker opponents. Focus on workouts with many repetitions of moderate weight to build strength without putting on mass. Calisthenics and body weight exercises are two excellent examples of this kind of workout.
Step 3
Focus your training on a handful of simple and basic moves, rather than trying to master the technique of a range of complex gambits. Some good choices for this include the double-leg takedown, cross-face, fireman's throw, granby roll and cradle.
Step 4
Engage only from a position of strength, during a match. If you find yourself at a disadvantage, scramble into a position where your body is aligned and your feet are firmly on the floor. This position will allow you to use your strength to your best advantage.
Step 5
Break your opponent's grip whenever possible. His hands will be the point at which your superior strength gives you the most advantage. If he can't maintain a hold on you, he will have a hard time employing his technique to any real advantage.
Tips and Warnings
- It's good to be stronger, but it's even better to be stronger and more skilled. Brute force as a wrestling strategy is best if you use it to get by as you build your technique.
References
- Andy Brick; Wrestling Coach; Hillsboro, Oregon
- "Brawn"; Stuart McRobert; 1989
- Section One: Wrestling Weight Control System
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