Whether it’s Greco-Roman, Folk Style, or Free Style, wrestling is one of the toughest, if not the toughest sport out there. Nearly every single fiber of muscle is used in any one wrestling match. Sometimes just a little bit, and sometimes to utter exhaustion.
I remember starting wrestling in high school and it was not easy. I had already done a lot of “working out” for years before but I had never experienced anything like wrestling before. A wrestling match will last up to 6 minutes if a pin does not occur before that. If the match goes on to 6 minutes I can assure you that you’ll be getting a great workout. Yes, it is 3 rounds of 2 minutes but the rest in between the rounds is only a few seconds.
As I hope I have clearly explained, wrestling in and of itself is a very good workout, but that doesn’t mean that it’s complete. There are lots of supplementary exercises to be used for wrestling workouts, and in the off season it is imperative to have a very well balanced workout program. Many wrestlers (especially high school wrestlers) don’t have access to a gym, but that doesn’t matter because wrestling workouts at home can be just as effective as those done at a gym. In fact it’s a great point to note that if you do have access to a gym then you should know that most machines are the worst choice for a wrestler.
A wrestler needs to be able to move through space with strength and flexibility. An effective Wrestling Workout Program consists of a proper balance of five different qualities: Muscular Strength, Muscular Endurance, Cardiovascular Strength, Cardiovascular Endurance, and Speed. This is why disciplines like gymnastics and yoga have a great carry over effect for the wrestler. Those sports utilize techniques that build a lot of strength, flexibility, and endurance. The deep breathing also has great carryover for cardiovascular endurance.
Wrestling is similar to these sports but usually more intense. The Wrestling Workouts linked below utilize a variety of different methods to get you ready for that next season or next match.
