Cameron Allen
With problems like obesity, anxiety, and a lack of confidence at an all-time high, physical activity is the solution. Wrestling is one of the best physical activities as it offers a plethora of physical and mental health benefits for all who practice it, especially youngsters. The following tells you the basics of youth wrestling
Youth Wrestling Moves
For young and aspiring wrestlers, it’s important to focus on techniques that are safe, effective, and age-appropriate.
Some common moves taught include the single-leg takedown, where they grab one of their opponent’s legs and drive them to the mat for a takedown. Another good beginner movement is the stand-up, which helps them escape from the bottom position.
Other moves like the fireman’s carry and the arm drag can also be introduced as their skill sharpens. To ensure longevity, it is crucial to prioritize proper technique, sportsmanship, and a love for the sport while teaching the youth.
Best Wrestling Throws To Teach Early
When coaching beginners and children in amateur wrestling, it’s important to start with simple throws that are safe and easy to learn. Two highly popular throws that are often taught early on are the hip toss and double leg takedown.
The hip toss mainly involves using your hips and arm to throw your opponent over your shoulder onto the mat, back first. The hip toss is a great way to introduce the concept of body weight leverage and body positioning.
On the other hand, the double leg takedown focuses on learning how to shoot in and take your opponent down by grabbing both of their legs. This move emphasizes speed, explosive strength and timing.
Easy & Effective Moves
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Double Leg Takedown: Similar to the single leg movement, however, this time you grab both your opponent’s legs and drive forward to bring them down.
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Sprawl: This is when your opponent tries to perform takedown, you sprawl by pushing your hips back, dropping your weight back to deflect and counter their attack.
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Ankle Pick: This move is a slightly more technical takedown. It involves you grabbing and pulling your opponent’s ankle to off-balance them and take them down.
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Single Leg Takedown: The single leg takedown move involves grabbing your opponent’s leg and driving forward to for a takedown.
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Stand-Up: This defensive move is usually used when you’re in the bottom position. You push off the mat with your hands like a pushup and explode up to get back on your heels.
Iconic Wrestling Moves
Granby Roll: Although not a technique, this move is used when your opponent is on top and you want to escape. Performing this by rolling back and forth, and using momentum to create space and get out from under your opponent.
Half Nelson: This move involves getting the other wrestler on their back and securing a half nelson grip. With the half nelson, you use your arm to control their head and apply pressure by holding their arm against their neck. Forcing their shoulders to the mat for a pin.
German Suplex: This is an effective variation of the suplex move where you lift your opponent, bridge your own body, and drive their shoulders back onto the mat allowing for a pin.
Illegal Wrestling Moves
In amateur wrestling, there are a number of different moves that are considered illegal and are not allowed during matches.
Some examples of these illegal moves include eye gouging, biting, striking with closed fists, hair pulling, and deliberately attacking the groin or crotch area.
The reason these moves are prohibited is because they can cause serious injury and go against the rules and spirit of fair competition. Wrestlers should always prioritize safety and sportsmanship in amateur wrestling by following the rules.
Wrestlers should focus on using proper techniques and following the rules to ensure a fair fight and enjoyable match for everyone involved.
Basics to Teach Young Wrestlers on Day One
When teaching young wrestlers on day one, it’s important to start with the basics. Begin by introducing them to the wrestling stance, which involves keeping their feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight balanced.
Teach them how to properly execute a takedown, which is a fundamental move in wrestling. Emphasize the importance of maintaining control and staying low to the ground. Show them how to perform basic escapes and reversals to help them get out of difficult positions.
Additionally, teach them about the different scoring positions, such as near fall and pin, and how to achieve them. Lastly, stress the importance of good sportsmanship, respect for their opponents, and following the rules.
By laying a strong foundation of these basic skills and values, young wrestlers can start their wrestling journey on the right foot.
The off-season is the perfect time to work on developing insane levels of strength, power, speed, and conditioning so you can ragdoll opponents come the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I help my son become a better wrestler?
There are many things you can do to help your son become a better wrestler.
For starters, encourage him to practice drills regularly and consistently. Consistency is key when it comes to developing confidence and skills, improving technique, and building strength.
You should definitely support him by attending all his matches and cheering him on. It is also very important to ensure your son has access to proper training and coaching.
Consider enrolling him in a reputable wrestling club with good equipment or finding a knowledgeable and experienced coach who can provide guidance, help him refine his skills, and fix his mistakes.
You should also emphasize the importance of physical fitness and conditioning. Encourage him to maintain a healthy diet and engage in regular strength and endurance training to enhance his performance on the mat.
In essence, wrestling is not just about winning; it’s about personal growth, discipline, and good sportsmanship. By being supportive and appreciative, providing resources, and fostering a positive mindset, you can help your son become a better wrestler.
Can my daughter get into wrestling?
She can definitely get into amateur wrestling if she is interested.
Like all sports, wrestling is not limited to any specific gender, age, or any other factor. Many women participate in wrestling, excel in the sport, and have even made a career out of it.
Wrestling is a great way for her to develop strength, agility, discipline, and confidence. You should encourage her to join a wrestling club or her school team where she can receive proper training and guidance.
It’s important to ensure that she has a supportive and inclusive environment where she can thrive.
With dedication, practice, and a passion for the sport, there’s no limit to what she can achieve in amateur wrestling.
How do I motivate my kids to wrestle?
There are many ways to motivate your kids to get into amateur wrestling, for starters, try introducing them to the sport in a fun and engaging way.
Show them videos on YouTube or take them to watch local wrestling matches to spark their interest in the sport. Make sure to highlight the physical benefits, such as improved core strength and coordination, and mental benefits, like discipline and resilience.
Secondly, encourage them to try a few introductory classes or join a wrestling club where they can learn the basics and interact with other aspiring wrestlers their age.
You could also make it a family affair by participating in activities related to wrestling, like practicing moves, training together, or watching matches together.
Lastly, remember to be their biggest supporter and not push them too hard. Provide positive reinforcement, and be who you want your future young wrestlers to be, as kids follow their parent’s example.
