Wrestling is a sport about control. Whether you are a freestyle or Greco-Roman wrestler, you have to be able to control your opponent to score points. In any wrestling match, there are takedowns and then each wrestler must control the other to escape the takedown or achieve back points and a pin. Additionally, the second and third periods of a freestyle wrestling match may begin with one wrestler on top of the other in referee's position.
From Bottom
Step 1
Pull your arms close to your body so your opponent cannot use them as leverage to turn you on your back. If you are on your stomach, slide one knee along the mat so it is level with your hip. Turn your face away from your knee to prevent a cradle or crossface that could potentially turn you on your back.
Step 2
Push up on your arms slightly to raise your torso off the mat and slide your extended leg quickly underneath you. Lean back into your opponent and plant your hands firmly in front of you to build your base. Keep your weight back on your ankles.
Step 3
Grab your opponent's wrists firmly in your hands and pull them away from your body if you can. Step forward with your left foot and push off it so your weight goes back into your opponent. As he pushes into you, use the momentum to bring your right leg forward so you are standing and leaning back into him. Maintain control of his wrists.
Step 4
Throw your opponent's wrists back behind you as hard as you can. Turn to face him immediately to avoid another takedown as you try to escape. Assume your neutral wrestling stance or press the attack on your opponent if he is off balance.
From Top
Step 1
Stay behind your opponent's arms at all times, unless he is on his stomach on the mat and cannot get up. Bring as much of your weight forward into your chest and upper body as you can by driving your feet into the mat. Take steps forward to continually pressure your opponent and keep him from escaping with a standup or sitout.
Step 2
Wrap one arm around your opponent's waist or into his inner thigh. Grab his ankle or hamstring if your hand is between his legs. Use your other arm to chop or push your opponent's elbow out from under him on the opposite side from his held leg. Sidestep away from his legs as you continue to drive into him with your chest, chop his elbow and lift his leg into the air.
Step 3
Collapse onto your opponent when he falls to the mat. Maintain your weight pressure on him. Grab his wrists if possible and keep his legs trapped with your own legs out to either side so he cannot build up his base. Gain control of his arms and try to implement a wrestling hold that will allow you to turn your opponent to his back for a pin, such as a cradle, arm bar or chicken wing. If your opponent is resistant to the move or able to counter it, immediately move on to a different hold that would be more effective. Continue to wear your opponent down and do not allow him to rest or stall the match while he is on bottom.
Tips and Warnings
- Drill your escapes and holds from the ground continuously in practice to build your muscle memory. Perform each movement as fast as you can to outpace your opponent in the match.
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