What is wrestling?
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Wrestling is one of the oldest and most dynamic combat sports in the world. It is a technically demanding yet fair form of combat in which athletes attempt to bring their opponent to the mat through targeted holds and tactics – always within the framework of clearly defined rules.
Wrestling explained simply
Wrestling is a recognized Olympic sport with a global organization. Worldwide, the sport is governed by the international umbrella organization United World Wrestling (UWW) , which is also responsible for world championships and Olympic qualifications.
In Switzerland, the Swiss Wrestling Federation is responsible for the organization, promotion of young talent and national competitions.
Wrestling styles
There are two official styles in Olympic wrestling:
- Freestyle wrestling : holds on the entire body – from head to toe – are allowed.
- Greco-Roman wrestling (Greco): Holds are only permitted above the hips.
The course of a wrestling match
A fight lasts:
-
Adults : 2 rounds of 3 minutes each
-
Youth : 2 rounds of 2 minutes each
There is a 30-second break between rounds. Scoring is based on a clear point system , with spectacular actions receiving particularly high marks.
Methods of winning in wrestling
A fight can be decided by various methods:
- Pin victory : Opponent is pinned to the mat with both shoulders.
- Technical superiority : A 15-point lead results in an early victory.
- Points victory : The wrestler with more points at the end of the time period wins.
- Disqualification : e.g., in cases of unsportsmanlike conduct or rule violations.
- Task : The opponent gives up the fight or cannot compete.
Why wrestling?
Wrestling is a versatile full-body sport with many benefits:
- Strength & Endurance : Effective training for the entire body
- Coordination & flexibility : Ideal for training body awareness
- Tactics & Strategy : Wrestling is also a mental game
- Discipline & Respect : Values that extend beyond sport
- Team spirit : Even when fighting alone – you are fighting for the team.
Who is wrestling suitable for?
Wrestling is open to all age groups :
- Entry from kindergarten age (from about 4 years old)
- Young people benefit from the development of coordination skills and strengthen their self-confidence.
- Adults can join at any time – even without prior knowledge
Many clubs offer trial training sessions – just give it a try!
Wrestling in Switzerland
Switzerland is home to numerous active wrestling clubs that promote both recreational and competitive sports. Here you will find a selection of established clubs:
| Association | region | Website / Information source |
|---|---|---|
| Freiamt wrestling team | Aargau (AG) | rsfreiamt.ch |
| Willisau Wrestling Club | Lucerne (LU) | rcwillisau.ch |
| Kriessern wrestling team | St. Gallen (SG) | rsk.ch |
| Oberriet-Grabs Wrestling Club | St. Gallen (SG) | ringerclubog.ch |
| Belp Wrestling Club | Bern (BE) | ringerclubbelp.ch |
| Winterthur Wrestling Club | Zurich (ZH) | rcwringen.ch |
| Zurich Wrestling Club | Zurich (ZH) | rczuerich.ch |
| Wrestling relay team Sense | Freiburg (FR) | rssense.ch |
| RC Rapperswil-Jona | St. Gallen (SG) | ringerclubrj.ch |
| RR Schattdorf | Uri/St. Gallen | rr-schattdorf.ch |
| RR Einsiedeln | Schwyz (SZ) | rreinsiedeln.ch |
| RR Hergiswil | Nidwalden (NW) | rr-hergiswil.ch |
| RR Tuggen | Schwyz (SZ) | rr-tuggen.ch |
| RRTV Weinfelden | Thurgau/LU | rrtv-weinfelden.ch |
| Wrestling Academy Bern | Bern (BE) | wabwrestling.ch |
| Lutte Team Valais | Valais (VS) | lutteteamvalais.ch |
Further links
- United World Wrestling – UWW
- Swiss Wrestling – Swiss Wrestling Federation
- History of wrestling
- wrestling mat and competition area
Start now!
Wrestling combines sport, discipline, and community like almost no other sport. Whether child, teenager, or adult – on the mat, what matters is not where you come from, but what you are willing to give.
👉 Find your nearest wrestling club now and experience how strong you really are.
