Wrestling – Your Guide to Grappling, Technique and Competition

When talking about wrestling, a combat sport that pits two athletes against each other in a battle of strength, balance and technique. Also known as the art of grappling, it has roots in ancient cultures and shows up in everything from school gyms to the Olympic arena. Judo, a Japanese martial art focused on throws and pins shares many principles with wrestling, especially the use of leverage and timing. Understanding how these two disciplines overlap helps you see why many wrestlers cross‑train in judo to sharpen their takedowns.

Beyond judo, wrestling branches into several recognized styles. Olympic wrestling, the version sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee, splits into freestyle and Greco‑Roman categories. Freestyle allows attacks below the waist, while Greco‑Roman restricts holds to the upper body, forcing athletes to master clinch work and throws. Both styles sit under the broader grappling, any discipline where the goal is to control or submit an opponent without striking. Grappling connects wrestling to other combat sports like Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu, Sambo and mixed martial arts, creating a network of techniques that feed into each other. Because of this link, many gyms label themselves as "combat sports" centers, offering classes that blend wrestling drills with striking or submission work.

What You’ll Explore Below

In the list that follows you’ll find posts that break down the nitty‑gritty of wrestling rules, gear and training tips. One article explains why the Olympics award two bronze medals in grappling sports, shedding light on the double‑elimination format that gives athletes a second shot at the podium. Another piece tackles the age‑old question of whether a black gi is allowed in judo—a rule that directly affects wrestlers who train in that environment. We also compare boxing and judo, helping you decide which sport aligns with your fitness goals, and dive into the legal submissions you can use in a judo match, which many wrestlers adapt for competition. All of these reads tie back to the core ideas of leverage, balance and strategic movement that define wrestling.

Whether you’re a beginner stepping onto the mat for the first time or a seasoned competitor looking for fresh perspectives, this collection gives you a practical roadmap. Expect clear explanations, real‑world examples and actionable advice that you can start applying in your next training session. Dive in and discover how wrestling’s rich history and its connections to judo, Olympic styles, and broader grappling concepts can elevate your game.