Amateur wrestling is a sport that people either love, or don’t really get. For those that do love the sport, why?
- Tradition and History: Wrestling is one of the oldest forms of combat, with references dating back to ancient civilizations. It is steeped in tradition, which attracts enthusiasts who respect the historical significance of the sport. Even in families, wrestling can run deep, with wrestling going back generations.
- Skill and Technique: Unlike professional wrestling, which is entertainment-based, amateur wrestling emphasizes skill, technique, discipline, and athleticism. Fans and participants appreciate the dedication it takes to master the sport.
- Flexibility & Fitness: Wrestling requires a high level of physical fitness, including strength, endurance, flexibility, and balance. If you’ve ever watched a wrestling match, you can’t help but wonder how the wrestlers bend the way they do.
- Competitiveness: The competitive nature of wrestling, with its one-on-one matchups, various weight classes, and clear scoring system, makes it an intense and exciting sport for both participants and spectators. It’s also a team sport, so the comradery and teamwork are critical as well.
- Accessibility: Wrestling does not require expensive equipment to start, making it an accessible sport for people of all backgrounds. This broad accessibility can help anyone get started.
- Educational Opportunities: In many countries, especially in the United States, wrestling can offer pathways to higher education through scholarships, which is an attractive prospect for young athletes.
- International Community: As a sport featured in the Olympic Games, amateur wrestling has a global community of fans and athletes, creating a sense of international camaraderie and competition.
- Development of Life Skills: Wrestling teaches life skills such as discipline, hard work, resilience, and the ability to learn from failure, as matches are often learning experiences leading to personal growth.
But why do you love wrestling? Let us know in the comments.