During a high school wrestling match, effective wrist control can lead to a wrestler taking control of the match. Once you gain wrist control on an opponent, you can manipulate where her body goes, which leads to takedowns and potential pins. Learning how to escape from various types of wrist control keeps you out of these situations, allowing you to avoid danger.
Duck-under
When your opponent grabs your wrist in a standing position with the two of you facing each other, do a duck-under to turn this into an advantageous position for you. Once your opponent grabs your wrist, circle toward the grabbing arm, which forces him to step toward you to defend your movement. As soon as he steps, duck underneath the arm that has grabbed your wrist. Once you duck, it puts strain on his wrist and gives you the opportunity to take your hand away. He must either release your wrist or put himself in a potentially bad position with you behind him.
Outward Turn
If your opponent grips the top of your arm with her thumb facing down, it becomes difficult for her to maintain control of the arm. Once the opponent grabs you like this, turn your hand outward to loosen the grip and pull your arm away simultaneously. If your opponent grabs the bottom of your wrist with her palm facing out, it becomes more difficult to break the hold. To do so, force your opponent's hand to her thigh, as this limits the amount of control she has over you. From that position, try to turn your hand outward to escape.
Referee’s Position
If your opponent grabs your wrist while in referee's position, it usually comes before an attempted turn or throw. Once your opponent goes for your wrist, drop your near side elbow onto the mat because that will prevent him from gaining full control of your arm. Once you block his arm, his grip loosens, so you can extend your arm to get out of wrist control. Keep your base while doing so, however, in case your opponent changes strategy during the maneuver and attempts to throw you in a different way.
Opponent Behind
If your opponent gets behind you with wrist control using both of her hands, it could lead to an offensive maneuver if not defended properly. Wedge your free hand underneath her near hand, reach across your body and grab her far wrist. This puts space between her near hand and your wrist and forces her to release it. Extend your other arm away from your body, which frees that arm from your opponent's grip, since she does not have control of your body anymore. Bring your elbows back to your body immediately to defend against another attack.
References
- "Winning Wrestling Moves"; Mark Mysnyk, et al.; 1994
- "The Wrestling Drill Book"; William Welker; 2005
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