Wrestling is a rewarding yet challenging sport that takes practice and determination. For three periods, wrestlers attempt to win using various takedowns, reversals, and escapes, all of which are worth a different amount of points. But how do you win a match overall?

How To Win A Wrestling Match

To win a wrestling match, you must outscore or pin your opponent. If you gain a 14-point lead, regardless of the round, you will be declared the victor. Otherwise, the person with the most points at the end of the third round is the winner. In the event of a draw, the bout goes into overtime.

As mentioned, there are a number of different ways to gain points in wrestling, meaning there are multiple ways to win a match. So, let’s take a closer look at wrestling bouts and some of the moves you can use to defeat your opponents. 

How Is A Wrestling Match Scored?

A wrestling match is scored based on takedowns, reversals, near falls, escapes, and penalty points. Escape moves, such as the Granby roll, are worth one point, whereas near falls, like the half-nelson, will get two or three points if done correctly. Takedowns and reversals are worth two points each.

Takedowns

Takedowns are the most common scoring method in a match and are worth two points each. This move is used to bring an opponent to the mat where they can be better controlled, which is vital for scoring points, pinning, and winning. 

To successfully complete a takedown:

• Start in a neutral position. No points will be awarded if one player already has the upper hand.
• Force the opponent to the ground against their will. This means that the opponent must not pull the person performing the move down in any way. 

Escapes

Escapes happen when one wrestler can get out of a position or hold and return to a neutral stance. For example, you may see an escape happen after a takedown if the wrestler can get out of the hold. 

During an escape, the wrestler is not starting in a neutral position. Instead, they are finding a way to escape their opponent. 

Escapes are worth one point during a bout, but they’re not easy to get. To escape from an opponent, a wrestler needs to outwit them or hope for a momentary loss of focus or control. 

Reversals

Reversals are similar to escapes, but they do not end in a neutral position. Instead, reversals end with the wrestler gaining the upper hand on their opponent.

In wrestling terms, a wrestler must come from underneath and take control over a situation.  Because these are more challenging, reversals are worth two points. 

Near Falls

Near falls happen during a wrestling match when a wrestler comes close to pinning their opponent. 

To achieve a near-fall score, a wrestler needs to get their opponent in a vulnerable position that does not count as a pin.

This usually involves something close to a pin where the opponent’s back is exposed but not against the mat. 

Points for near falls vary based on how long the hold lasts. For example:

• If the opponent is held vulnerable for two seconds, the wrestler gets two points. 
• If they hold their opponent for 5 seconds, then the wrestler is awarded three points at the high school level and four at the college level. 

So, near falls can be worth a lot of points when done effectively. 

Penalty Points

Penalty points are awarded to the opponent when the wrestler commits an infraction. Some reasons for penalty points include: 

• Stalling
• Unnecessary roughness
• Unsportsmanlike conduct 

These infractions can award the opponent one or two points depending on the severity of the offense. Penalty points are the only way to score points without trying or actively doing something to earn them.

These points rely on the actions of your opponent solely. So, don’t count on these when trying to win your match. 

How Long Is A Wrestling Match?

A wrestling match is typically around seven minutes long and lasts over three periods, varying in time between one and three minutes. The time of each period varies based on the wrestling level. 

The length of a wrestling match varies based on the skill level of the wrestlers. For example:

• Most high school bouts last for about six minutes. Each period should last for two minutes, but they can be stopped early, and the time doesn’t account for overtime.
• College wrestling starts with a three-minute period followed by two periods both lasting two minutes. This means the average college wrestling match lasts for about seven minutes without overtime. 

Overtime typically doesn’t last long, with the first wrestler to score points being named the winner. 

So, it typically does not add much time to the overall length of a wrestling match unless there are no points scored by either wrestler, in which case there may be a second overtime period. 

Tips For Winning A Wrestling Match

Wrestling matches can be tough to win, especially when you’re just getting started. That said, we’ve gathered a few tips to help you win a wrestling match: 

• Don’t be afraid to strike offensively first. Staying on the defensive can mean you have to get yourself out of sticky situations later on. 
• Only use moves that you have practiced and mastered. Using new moves can lead to a loss or even injury if done incorrectly. 
• If your opponent is stronger than you, you need to out-technique them during the match. This often means changing your strategy as the bout progresses.
• Don’t let anything upset you during a match. Penalties, among other things, can affect your attitude, but they also lead to extra points for your opponent.
• Don’t stop until the referee blows the whistle. There may be times when a penalty is not called, or a match is not stopped when it should be. Don’t allow your opponent to get the upper hand because you anticipated a whistle but didn’t get one. 

Winning a wrestling match is not an easy feat, but you can do so by outscoring and pinning your opponent. 

It is essential to focus on the score and maintain a lead over your opponent during a bout, but don’t let that make you lose focus on your opponent’s actions. 

In rare cases, you may find yourself ahead by 14 points, which leads to an automatic win. But that’s not something to rely on. Instead, practice your moves and work on successfully controlling your opponent.

Interested in Wrestling? Check Out My Recommendations

Sources

• NBC Sports Engine: Wrestling Rules and Scoring
• NCAA: How A College Wrestling Match Is Scored
• Hillsborough Youth Wrestling Club: Wrestling 101

You may have seen your favorite wrestlers or MMA fighters wearing headgear while training, but you might not know what it is. If you’re new to the sport of wrestling, it’s crucial for you to understand what headgear is and why it’s so vital. 

What Is Wrestling Headgear And Why Is It Important?

Wrestling headgear, also called a “ear guards,” protects your ears from injury during fighting or training. It prevents cauliflower ear, an ugly condition where fluid collects in the ear due to repeated trauma. It can also help prevent injuries that can occur when wrestlers fall on their heads. 

This article will discuss everything you need to know about wrestling headgear.

What Is Wrestling Headgear Made Of?

A standard wrestling headgear consists of an inner protective lining made of ballistic nylon, an outer vinyl covering, and straps to secure it in place. 

Some models may also feature air holes in the ear protectors, which allows wrestlers to hear instructions from their coach during practices and in matches.

Why Is Headgear Important In Wrestling?

Wrestling headgear is important because it acts as a shock absorber to protect your ears against damage caused to the skin and tissue when you get hit or fall.

The most common injury in wrestling is the cauliflower ear, which isn’t only an unsightly condition but also painful.

A cauliflower ear is formed when the skin on the ear gets damaged and becomes inflamed, causing it to harden in response to the trauma.

While this is most commonly caused by headlocks or other wrestling holds, it can also occur from repeated mat burns or blood blisters that break and open up.

Excessive cauliflower ear can be a real problem, not because it’s aesthetically unappealing but because it can affect the wrestler’s hearing ability, sometimes resulting in hearing loss.

Wrestling headgear helps prevent cauliflower ear since it acts as padding between your ear and the mat to reduce friction.

Many wrestlers like that headgear allows the skin on their ears to move freely while protecting it from mat burns and abrasions.

It also protects your hearing ability by absorbing the impact of any blows to your head, neck, or shoulders.

This can reduce the risk of concussions and help you fight harder and longer than you can without wearing one.

Wrestling headgear isn’t only worn during training but also when competing. Most tournaments will have a uniform policy, so check with your coach or tournament organizer beforehand.

How To Wear Wrestling Headgear

Wearing wrestling headgear is as easy as putting it on! Always start by attaching both straps to the back of your head.

After you have placed both ear guards over your ears, tighten the straps at the top and bottom of each side, so they fit comfortably but snugly.

A common mistake when wearing wrestling headgear is to fasten the straps too tightly.

If you leave the guard on for an extended period, the circulation in your head can be compromised, causing dizziness or even fainting.

Therefore, your headgear should fit properly. Never wear one that’s too large or loose. It should fit snugly without restricting blood flow.

Best Wrestling Headgear

The key to finding the best wrestling headgear for you is finding one that provides the most comfort and protection without restricting your movements.

For example, this Adidas Earguard (which you can view here on Amazon) has specially molded ear cups with adjustable straps and comes with a spacer strap and chin cup.

Finding a headgear that fits well can reduce injuries while improving your performance in matches and training sessions.

Wrestling headgears typically range from $25 to $70, with the cheaper ones usually made out of materials like vinyl or lycra.

The more expensive models might be made of neoprene and offer increased protection, but you should always check the quality of the outer lining before buying one that’s too expensive.

Wrestling headgear for kids is typically sized by age, while the ones made for adults are sized by head circumference.

The key here is to buy headgear that fits your individual needs regardless of what other people recommend.

Choosing The Right Size Wrestling Headgear

When buying your first headgear, you want to pick one that fits well without restricting your movements.

The general rule of thumb is to choose a size that’s slightly smaller than your actual measurement, so it doesn’t stretch out or move as much as you wrestle.

After wearing the headgear, make sure you adjust the straps before putting it back on. Once it’s on your head, try twisting side to side or up and down to see if the ear guards slip out of place before testing them in action.

The most important thing is finding one that works for you! It should provide enough protection without distracting you too much or causing you to feel claustrophobic.

The best way to find one that’s comfortable is to try it on before buying it! You can also ask friends or teammates about their preferred brands so you can get an opinion before making a purchase.

Wrestling Headgear Brands 

As with any product, the brand making your headgear matters a lot. In case you’re overwhelmed with the numerous options on the market, it’s always advisable to go with an established brand.

This is because they have had time to fine tune their methods to create the best product possible.

The most established brands in the sport are Asics, Adidas, Cliff Keen, Brute, and Matman. You can find most of those brands here on Amazon or at your local sports store.

Most of these brands offer wrestling headgear for children and adults. 

If you’re having trouble finding the right size or style, you can also check out these brands’ websites. They often have sizing charts to help you find the perfect fit for your other wrestling equipment, too!

Final Thoughts

Wearing a good-fitting, comfortable wrestling headgear can protect you from cauliflower ear and other injuries.

It’s crucial that you choose a product that works for you in terms of comfort and protection. Plus, wearing it during tournaments will help avoid getting disqualified due to a uniform violation!

Interested in Wrestling? Check Out My Recommendations

Sources

• Athletic: The Origins of Wrestling
• Healthline: Cauliflower Ear: Identification, Treatment, and More

If you’ve ever observed a wrestling match, you may have noticed that the wrestlers’ ears appear slightly deformed. The ears may look puffy, lumpy, or just generally misshapen.

It’s so common that it can become a surprise to see a wrestler with completely normal-looking ears, but why is it so common, and what causes this ear deformity?

Why Do Wrestlers Have Weird Ears?

Wrestlers have weird ears, or cauliflower ears, because of the physical trauma that causes pockets of blood to form, creating a lumpy appearance. They may be treated by draining the pockets and icing the ears.

The rest of this article will provide an in-depth look at what causes cauliflower ear, how to treat it, and how to avoid getting cauliflower ear in the first place.

What Causes Cauliflower Ear?

The main causes of cauliflower ear are blunt force trauma and any sort of friction against the ears. In wrestling, you’re constantly being slammed and pinned against the mat as well as put in headlocks. All of these can cause cauliflower ear making it one of the most common injuries in the sport. 

When blunt force trauma or friction is applied to the ear, separation of tissues occurs and creates spaces between the layers of skin and cartilage. These pockets then fill with blood that causes a puffy and lumpy appearance.

Think about if you’ve ever hit your head and ended up with a lump. Cauliflower ears are caused by the same process, but just in a different spot.

Once the blood has entered these pockets, it just sits there and causes redness and swelling, and it’s not going away easily. The only way to remove the blood is by lancing the ear and draining the blood out. 

Eventually, the blood will dry and harden, causing the disfigurement to become permanent. 

Side Effects of Cauliflower Ear

It is important to remember that cauliflower ear causes more than an unpleasant appearance. There are some major side effects of cauliflower ear, including:

• Hearing loss
• Difficulty using headphones
• Ringing ears
• Headache

If not treated, severe cauliflower ear can also cause the outer edge of your ear to die. If the separation between skin and cartilage is severe enough, then the outer edges can lose their blood supply. 

This will initially cause the hardening of the cartilage and can eventually lead to it completely falling off. The outer ear dying can also lead to a severe infection that can become systemic if left untreated. 

Is There A Cure For Cauliflower Ear?

While there is not a cure for cauliflower ear, some options may allow you to return your ear to a semi-normal state, including icing the ear and draining the pocket of fluid. If the trauma is repeated frequently, then chances are your ears are going to be permanently disfigured. 

When you notice that you may be getting cauliflower ear after being injured, the first thing to do is apply ice to the area.

Ice reduces the swelling and minimizes the damage by constricting the capillaries in the skin of the ear. This helps reduce the amount of excess blood that will seep into the pocket between the layers of skin and cartilage.

It is not recommended that you take anti-inflammatory medications as most of them have some blood-thinning properties, which could make the cauliflower ear more severe.

Once the initial swelling process is complete, typically after a few days, then you may want to get your ear drained. If the swelling is extreme, then chances are it will not go back to normal on its own and may cause severe damage to the cartilage. 

Your ear’s cartilage receives oxygen from the blood supply in your ear’s skin. If the skin is separated from the cartilage for too long, it could prevent the cartilage from healing and cause it to harden and be permanently deformed. 

If you decide to get it drained, the best thing to do is go to a doctor and have them do it for you. 

Many wrestlers or people who get cauliflower ear often choose to do it themselves, but we recommend leaving the job to a professional if you’re nervous about it. 

The doctor will insert a hollow needle into your ear and draw most of the blood out with a syringe. This minimizes any additional trauma as you do not want to put more pressure on your still healing blood vessels.

Ways To Avoid Cauliflower Ear

The single most effective way to prevent cauliflower ear is by wearing appropriate headgear at all times. Although many wrestling competitions now require headgear, competition is not where the majority of injuries are going to occur. 

Most injuries occur in practice.

The majority of the time that an athlete spends on the mat is going to be during practice. That is why, if you’re going to try and prevent cauliflower ear, practice is the most critical time to do it. 

You can check out some of the best wrestling headgear here on Amazon. They have headgear with varying levels of protection and for all different ages as well.

If the headgear is used appropriately, it is extremely effective in preventing cauliflower ear. However, if it is used incorrectly, it may actually increase the risk of developing this condition.

If the headgear is not tight enough or is too tight, it may move around, which can cause additional friction and put more pressure on the ears, resulting in a cauliflower ear.

Cauliflower ear is typically not a gradual process. It usually comes from one strong blow to the ear, which causes the separation of tissues. 

Although older wrestlers typically have worse ears, they have suffered through many incidents of cauliflower ear, which causes additional scar tissue to build up over time.

This is why it is essential to ensure that you always protect your ears every time you step on the mat because it only takes one blow.

Cauliflower ear is one of the most common injuries associated with wrestling that is caused by blunt force or friction trauma that separates the layers of skin and cartilage in the ear.

This creates pockets that fill with blood which creates the puffy appearance that is characteristic of this condition.

Treatment is possible with icing and draining any pockets of blood however, the best treatment is prevention.

Wearing appropriate headgear that is properly fitted will be the best thing you can do to prevent permanent disfigurement of your ears.

Interested in Wrestling? Check Out My Recommendations

Sources

• USA Today: Cauliflower ears: Badge of honor for wrestlers
• Nationwide Children’s: Cauliflower Ear
• NWCA Online: Cauliflower Ear Prevention
• Healthline: Cauliflower Ear

Boxing and wrestling are two of the most popular combat sports today. In this article I go over some of the things that make these sports similar, and other things that make them different.

What Is The Difference Between Boxing And Wrestling

Here are key differences between boxing and wrestling:

• Boxers fight standing whereas wrestlers fight primarily on the ground.
• Boxers fight in a ring whereas wrestlers fight on wrestling mats.
• Boxers wear big heavy gloves, wrestlers wear no gloves.
• Boxing involves punching, wrestling involves grappling.

Boxers Fight Standing Whereas Wrestlers Fight Primarily On The Ground

If you have watched a boxing match you have probably realized that the fighters never go to the ground. You can’t even hold your opponent in boxing.

In wrestling, however, the whole purpose of the sport is to grab, toss and pin your opponent to the ground.

Most of the scoring in wrestling happens on the ground with things such as takedowns and pins and so this is why most of the fighting takes place on the ground rather than standing up.

Boxers Fight In A Ring Whereas Wrestlers Fight On Wrestling Mats

When it comes to boxing, the fighting takes place in a square ring. Ropes are surrounding this square and there is no escape for either fighter once they enter into this area of combat.

Wrestling on the other hand does not have such an enclosure. As a result, wrestlers can escape from their opponent’s holds by simply stepping out of bounds.

This is why wrestling mats are circular and not square.

Boxers Wear Big Heavy Gloves, Wrestlers Wear No Gloves

Boxing gloves are big and heavy, meant to protect the fighter’s hands as they punch their opponent.

Wrestling does not use gloves because there is no need for them. Wrestlers rely on their grip and ability to hold onto their opponent to control them.

Boxing Involves Punching, Wrestling Involves Grappling

In boxing, punching is everything. To win a match you need to land more punches than your opponent does or at least land the most powerful punch of all, a knockout.

In wrestling, grappling is key. You can win a match by taking your opponent to the ground and pinning them there for a few seconds.

This is why boxing and wrestling are two very different sports.

Although there are several differences between the two sports, there are also many similarities as well. Let’s touch on those below.

What Are Similarities Between Boxing And Wrestling?

Here are some of the similarities between boxing and wrestling:

• Both have timed rounds.
• Both have similar training regimens.
• Both have a point system for scoring.
• Both involve 1v1 combat.
• Both have ways to win a match instantly.
• Both have weight classes.

Both Have Time Rounds

Both boxing and wrestling have timed rounds. In professional boxing, most fights will be between 10 and 12 rounds with each round lasting 3 minutes.

In wrestling on the other hand there are 3 rounds with the 1st round lasting 3 minutes and the last 2 rounds lasting 2 minutes each.

Both Have Similar Training Regimens

Although the fighting styles of both boxing and wrestling are very different, the training regimens are often very similar. This is because both sports require speed, agility, endurance, power, and stamina.

For this reason, both boxers and wrestlers will focus on things such as jumping rope and jogging to improve both their quickness and endurance.

Both Sports Have A Point System For Scoring

In both boxing and wrestling fighters score points throughout their matches. These scores are then added up at the end of the match and the fighter with the most points wins the match.

In professional boxing, a boxer will earn points each round from the judges depending on how well they fight (typically 10 points for the winner and 9 points for the loser of the round).

In wrestling, fighters earn points for things such as takedowns, reversals, and escapes. At the end of the match, the wrestler who scores the most points wins.

Both Involve One Versus One Combat

Although boxing and wrestling are two different sports, they both involve one fighter pitted against another.

Even though there are wrestling teams, these fighters are never in the same match at the same time. When you box or wrestle it is just you and the person in front of you.

Both Have Ways To Win A Match Instantly

In boxing, a knockout is the most obvious way to win a match. If you hit your opponent hard enough and they are unable to continue fighting, you win the match.

In wrestling, you can also win a match instantly by pinning your opponent.

This means that in both wrestling and boxing you always have a shot at winning no matter how behind you may be.

Both Have Weight Classes

In both boxing and wrestling, there are weight classes that fighters compete in. This is to make the fights more balanced and to protect the fighters as well.

Unlike other combat sports, weight is a major factor in both boxing and wrestling.

Which Is Better For Self Defense: Boxing Or Wrestling?

Wrestling is better than boxing when it comes to self-defense. This is because 73% of street fights end up on the ground according to studies. Although boxing is useful for self-defense, wrestling is better since most fights end up on the ground.

However, this is not to say that boxing is ineffective or that the skills you learn in boxing will be ineffective in a street fight.

A big part of self-defense is knowing how to take a punch or how to endure an attack from your opponent and boxing definitely teaches that.

But with 73% of street fights ending up on the ground, it’s a good idea to learn how to fight from a grounded position since most fights tend to go that way.

Which Is Easier To Learn: Boxing Or Wrestling?

Boxing is easier to learn than wrestling because it involves less technique. Wrestling involves several moves and a complex scoring system that fighters have to learn. Boxing moves are less complex and you can be an effective fighter by only knowing a few basic punches (jab, hook, cross).

I’m not saying that boxing is easy, it’s not, but it is easier to become proficient at boxing than it is at wrestling.

Which Is More Dangerous: Boxing Or Wrestling?

Wrestling is more dangerous than boxing. According to a study done by The Journal Of Sports Science And Medicine, when injuries in several combat sports were compared, “wrestling had the highest rate of injuries followed by boxing.”

In the study, strains, sprains, and dislocations were much more common in wrestling than they were in boxing or martial arts.

This is not to say that wrestling is dangerous, but when you compare the two combat sports then wrestling does tend to lead to more injuries than boxing does.

With that being said, things such as concussions, bruises, and cuts were more common in boxing than they were in wrestling.

It’s fair to say that both sports are physical and anytime you compete in a physical sport there is a greater chance of injury.

Just make sure that if you do train wrestling or boxing that you are taking proper precautions to protect yourself as this will lower your risk of injury.

Which Is More Fun: Boxing Or Wrestling?

Boxing tends to be more fun than wrestling for most people as both a viewer and a fighter. This is because boxing matches tend to go on for longer periods of time, and they are more exciting to watch. The excessive grappling that occurs in wrestling can sometimes make the sport less entertaining.

However, at the end of the day, it just depends on how you like to fight and train. If you prefer fighting on your feet then you will like boxing more. If you like grappling, then wrestling is the way to go.

Should You Learn Boxing Or Wrestling?

If you want to learn a martial art that is good for self-defense and will help you win in a fight then wrestling is the better option. If you are looking for a martial art that is safer, easier and more fun then boxing is the better option.

As you have seen throughout, both boxing and wrestling have their pros and cons, their similarities, and their differences.

At the end of the day, it’s best to choose a martial art that you will enjoy and that you feel will protect you if you ever have to use it.

However, I will say that if you are interested in competing in MMA competitions then wrestling is absolutely the way to go.

Many MMA fighters have backgrounds in wrestling and things that you learn in wrestling transfer very well over to MMA.

But again, do what feels right to you.

Interested in Wrestling? Check Out My Recommendations

Sources

https://www.highpercentagemartialarts.com/blog/2019/3/23/almost-all-fights-go-to-the-ground-and-we-can-prove-it

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3809053/