The truth is that, between two wrestlers of equal skill, the larger and stronger wrestler is likely to win. This is one reason that wrestling is divided into weight classes -- to ensure that wrestlers of approximately equal size are pitted against one another. The best wrestlers possess power and technical skill, but it is possible to succeed by being overpoweringly good at one of those two attributes.
Weight Classes
Because size and strength are so important in wrestling, wrestlers must weight less than a specific amount prior to a match. A wrestler who weighs more is disqualified from competition. The NCAA weight classes since 1999 are 125 lbs., 133 lbs., 140 lbs., 149 lbs., 157 lbs., 165 lbs., 177 lbs., 184 lbs., 197 lbs. and 285 lbs. High school competition often adds three or four classes at the bottom of the spectrum to accommodate younger and smaller wrestlers.
Wrestling Moves
Judo and jujutsu allow for small opponents to beat large opponents because they permit joint locks that take advantage of skill over size and power. However, most wrestling moves don't use this kind of joint lock -- such locks are illegal. Although speed, timing and sensitivity are still part of wrestling, the lack of these moves makes strength more important, and more viable as a strategy, than in other grappling arts.
Strength over Skill
If you are a strong wrestler with only fair technique, you should cut weight to wrestle below your natural weight class. This puts you in against weaker opponents, giving your strength that much greater an advantage. In terms of techniques, stick with basic moves that are harder to counter or make mistakes with. This uses your strength the most, and your technique the least.
Skill over Strength
If you are a smaller or weaker wrestler relying on skill to win matches, you should be in as good cardiovascular condition as you can manage. Your skill will be among the first things to go when you start to lose your wind. In the match, focus on techniques that take advantage of an opponent's commitment or shifts in body weight. These use your opponent's power against him. Avoid power moves like a hip throw or half nelson, since your stronger opponent is likely to be able to simply cancel them out of hand.
References
- Andy Brick; Wrestling Coach; Hillsboro, Ore
- NCAA Wrestling Rules
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