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Wrestling

When people hear wrestling, most think of the glamour extravaganza of WWE, but it is a sport steeped in Olympic heritage, and one of just two still limited to amateur competitors at the elite level.

An Overview of Wrestling

Since the dawn of time men have been pitted against each other in physical hand-to-hand combat, making this almost certainly the most ancient of Olympic sports.

It's a simple concept. Two men or women wrestle until one is declared the winner. Over the years, wrestling techniques have become more sophisticated and generally speaking the winner of any wrestling bout is the person who has the better technique, strength and overall fitness.

Greco-Roman wrestling appeared in the first modern games in 1896, and it was joined by Freestyle wrestling in 1904. The aim of the game is to pin your opponent to the mat, and though it requires massive strength and fitness at the highest level, it can be a lot of fun.

While Britain has never won an Olympic medal in the Greco-Roman, there are plenty of options for people to get involved in the sport from the grassroots up, with clubs littering the country.

Benefits

Wrestling, in both forms, provides a full-body workout that raises the heart rate to help improve cardiovascular fitness, reflexes, balance and timing. This form of exercise improves stamina, lowers blood pressure and helps move oxygen throughout the body more effectively.

Costs

You don't need any specialist equipment to start off with but for competition a skintight Lycra unitard is required which can cost around £22

Involvement

The best option is to join a club in order to learn how to do moves safely and correctly. They exist nationwide but you may have to travel to find one close to you.

Adaptations and Equipment

To ensure safety, it is recommended that knee pads, elbow pads and headgear are worn at all times. Beginners can just wear shorts and t-shirt for their first few sessions before buying specialised wrestling shoes and a singlet at a later date.

Facts

  • When the first modern Olympics were held in 1896, wrestling was included as a way of giving spectators a flavour of what the games would have been like in ancient Greece.
  • The 1912 Greco-Roman middleweight semi-final lasted an incredible 11 hours. The eventual winner, Klein of Russia, was so exhausted that he was unable to take part in the final.

Find Wrestling Clubs/Groups Near You

Use the search below to find local organisations near you.

National Governing Bodies

British Wrestling Association

Contact Email
admin@britishwrestling.org
Contact Telephone
01246 236443
Iron Skull Krav Maga

Iron Skull Krav Maga

Krav Maga is for everyone, regardless of age or ability. 

Glasgow Wrestling Club

Glasgow Wrestling Club

With the possible exception of athletics, wrestling is recognised as the world's oldest competitive sport!! Join our classes !!

Park Villa Community Sports Hub

Park Villa Community Sports Hub

Based in Govan, the Park Villa Community Sports Hub has a wide range of activities being delivered to the community. Check out what we have on and get Involved with exciting activities at Park Villa.

Glasgow School of Wrestling

Glasgow School of Wrestling

Glasgow School of Wrestling, founded by Ravie Davie, is the place to start your journey in wrestling, to pick up new skills or to find a fun way of getting fit! Wrestling Club based in Govan for ages 5 years old and over with expert coaching!

Brian Long School of Judo

Brian Long School of Judo

Brian Long’s School of Judo provides opportunities for all ages to receive coaching by a national level experienced coach plus the chance to compete in a range of Martial Arts. We provide a variety of different sports and activities which is focused

Krav Maga Self Defence Training for Adults

Krav Maga Self Defence Training for Adults

Krav Maga Self-Defence Training is a practical, efficient martial art focusing on real-world situations and instinctive movements. Designed for individuals of all skill levels, it's particularly accessible for beginners, thanks to the expertise of certified instructors who emphasize safety, technique, and situational awareness. Group sessions not only enhance physical preparedness but also build a strong sense of community, boosting confidence and support among participants. This training empowers people to protect themselves, improving physical fitness and mental resilience in a supportive group environment.

Glasgow Wrestling Club - Adult Class (14+)

Glasgow Wrestling Club - Adult Class (14+)

Club wrestling classes for 14yrs and older. Booking gets you two club sessions per week coached by the most experienced and decorated Wrestling coaches in Scotland

Glasgow Wrestling Club - Adult Class (14+)

Glasgow Wrestling Club - Adult Class (14+)

Club wrestling classes for 14yrs and older. Booking gets you two club sessions per week coached by the most experienced and decorated Wrestling coaches in Scotland

Wrestling - Adult Class

Wrestling - Adult Class

Have you watched wrestling and fancy learning some moves and joining Glasgow's fastest growing wrestling school? A social and fun environment with like-minded people!

Wrestling: The Young Team

Wrestling: The Young Team

Wrestling session for 12 - 15 year olds. Have you watched wrestling and fancy learning some moves and joining Glasgow's fastest growing wrestling school? A social and fun environment with like-minded people!

Wrestling: The Wee Troops

Wrestling: The Wee Troops

Wrestling session for 5 to 12 year olds. Have you watched wrestling and fancy learning some moves and joining Glasgow's fastest growing wrestling school? A social and fun environment with like-minded people!

Wrestling: The Wee Troops

Wrestling: The Wee Troops

Wrestling session for 5 to 12 year olds. Have you watched wrestling and fancy learning some moves and joining Glasgow's fastest growing wrestling school? A social and fun environment with like-minded people!

Wrestling: The Wee Troops

Wrestling: The Wee Troops

Wrestling session for 5 to 12 year olds. Have you watched wrestling and fancy learning some moves and joining Glasgow's fastest growing wrestling school? A social and fun environment with like-minded people!

Wrestling: The Young Team

Wrestling: The Young Team

Wrestling session for 12 - 15 year olds. Have you watched wrestling and fancy learning some moves and joining Glasgow's fastest growing wrestling school? A social and fun environment with like-minded people!

Wrestling - Adult Class

Wrestling - Adult Class

Have you watched wrestling and fancy learning some moves and joining Glasgow's fastest growing wrestling school? A social and fun environment with like-minded people!

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