Though there are many opportunities to be aggressive in a wrestling match, the word attack is reserved for making the opening attempt at a takedown. This happens at the beginning of a match and any other time both wrestlers are on their feet and facing each other in a position called neutral by the rules of the sport. An athlete can opt for a dozen or more specific techniques when making this attack, but they all begin with the same strategy and preliminaries.
Step 1
Maneuver around your opponent, usually in a circle near the center of the ring. Use this time to test his responses to feinted attacks and habits. The better you understand how he thinks and moves, the more likely your attack will work.
Step 2
Choose the technique you'll use for your attack. You should know this before you begin the attack, or the hesitation of choosing will make you miss the takedown. It's worth noting that experienced wrestlers will do this automatically, without consciously considering or choosing.
Step 3
Slap your opponent in the head. This doesn't have to be a literal slap, but rather pressing on the forehead, faking to the eyes or wrenching him in one direction or the other. The purpose of this step is to get his attention on his head rather than his lower body, which is the real target of most wrestling attacks.
Step 4
Shoot for your opponent's legs or waist, depending on the target of your particular technique. Shoot as fast as you can and as low as your technique allows.
Step 5
Execute the technique as you learned and practiced it. Some examples of popular takedown techniques include a fireman's carry, double-leg takedown and ankle pick.
Tips and Warnings
- The instructions are for takedowns on the lower body and legs. Wrestlers also use throws, which require a different setup and execution. Practice your attack and takedown techniques hundreds of times before trying them in competition. You should be able to perform any takedown without thought before you're ready to try them against a skilled, resisting opponent.
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