In any form of wrestling, a reversal is a technique in which the wrestler succeeds in escaping from the defensive position and achieving an offensive or dominant position. This can lead to a win by pinning or submitting the opponent, or the reversal can earn points for the wrestler. The rules for the reversal vary, depending on the type of wrestling.
Reversals from Par Terre
In folkstyle wrestling, a reversal from par terre is worth one point toward the final score. In this type of wrestling, the wrestlers are often in the par terre position, in which one wrestler is on his knees with his hands on the mat, in the bottom position. The other wrestler is on his knees, with his hands resting on the bottom wrestler's back. This is the top position. If the bottom wrestler can escape his position and achieve the top position in control of his opponent's movements, he has achieved a reversal and earned one point.
Reversals from the Mat
If the opponent has you on the mat and in danger of being pinned, you can earn two points for a reversal by getting out from that position and achieving control of the opponent's movements. You don't always have to get the opponent down to the mat to earn the reversal. For example, if you are on the mat and you manage to get to your feet and move behind the opponent in such a way that you can control him, you would still earn the two points for the reversal.
Reversals Out of Bounds
It is not against the rules of wrestling to move out of bounds when you are doing a reversal, as long as the other wrestler remains in bounds. If both of you go out of bounds, then the reversal will not be scored. If you attempt a reversal, but are only able to move to a neutral position instead of a control position, then you will be given one point for an escape instead of two points for a reversal.
Reversals in Submission Wrestling
In a submission grappling tournament, the goal is to win by forcing the opponent to acknowledge your victory. If neither wrestler can achieve a submission hold, the bout will be scored on points. Escaping from the defensive or guard position and achieving the offensive or top position is considered a reversal in submission grappling. If you can get the reversal and hold the top position for at least three seconds, you will earn two points.
Member Comments