A Guide to the Popular Art of Folkstyle Wrestling

Folkstyle wrestling holds a unique place in the American sports tradition, drawing participants and spectators with its distinct competitive edge. But what exactly sets it apart from freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling? This article explores the intricacies and historical roots of folkstyle wrestling, showing why it remains a celebrated form of athletic competition across colleges and universities in the United States.

The Origins and Evolution of Folkstyle Wrestling

Two folkstyle wrestlers fighting for position — *U.S. Air Force photo/Joshua Armstrong, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons*

Folkstyle wrestling has a diverse cultural background, with a variety of European settlers influencing its style. It owes its origins to a range of communities, particularly European settlers. The British and Irish settlers were especially influential in bringing indigenous folk wrestling styles to the United States.

These unique wrestling styles, such as the Irish Collar-and-Elbow style and the British Cornish wrestling style significantly influenced the birth of traditional wrestling styles. These European settlers were among the first to wrestle folkstyle in America. Such a melding of diverse wrestling styles resulted in a unique sport that remains captivating to audiences today.

Early Colonial Era and Native American Influence

Long before the arrival of European settlers, the Native American tribes had developed their own distinct wrestling styles. These diverse techniques also had a great influence on the wrestling styles adopted and evolved by the European settlers in North America.

Unfortunately, the specific techniques from Native American wrestling that shaped the development of folkstyle wrestling are not thoroughly documented in available historical sources. This is why it is often agreed that it was the British and Irish who had the most influence in folkstyle wrestling.

Catch Wrestling and the Birth of Folkstyle

Catch wrestling, with its no-holds-barred nature, laid the foundation for North American Catch-As-Catch-Can wrestling and greatly influenced the evolution of folkstyle wrestling.

In the 19th century, catch-as-catch-can wrestling, which allowed a diverse array of holds and techniques both standing and on the ground, gained popularity at fairs and festivals across the United States, alongside other styles such as Chinese wrestling.

Before modern folkstyle wrestling took shape, its predecessors were the collar-and-elbow style honed by Irish immigrants and catch-as-catch-can wrestling from Great Britain. Prior to World War I, an athlete named Edward Clark Gallagher created the first varsity wrestling program at Oklahoma A&M College. The first NCAA wrestling tournament took place in 1928, and from this period on, collegiate wrestling became more and more popular throughout the United States.

Key Characteristics of Folkstyle Wrestling

Folkstyle wrestling competition, with two wrestler on the ground fighting for position — *Max Talbot-Minkin from USA, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons*

Folkstyle wrestling has some unique characteristics that set it apart from other wrestling styles. Its distinct focus on maintaining control over the opponent differs significantly from freestyle wrestling, which primarily emphasizes the execution of moves. Folkstyle wrestling pins must last for 2 seconds, whereas freestyle wrestling and Greco-Roman wrestling pins only last one second.

Another distinct aspect of folkstyle wrestling is the employment of an overtime system to break ties at the end of regulation, guaranteeing a clear winner. In terms of techniques, the types of takedowns allowed in folkstyle wrestling also differ from those in freestyle wrestling. Folkstyle wrestling also looks for takedowns, which result in more ground control time.

Emphasis on Control and Riding Time

Control takes precedence in folkstyle wrestling, setting it apart from freestyle wrestling, which prioritizes executing moves. This emphasis extends to the ground phase of the match, highlighting the importance of wrestling on the mat, a feature less pronounced in freestyle wrestling.

Maintaining control not only introduces a strategic element to the sport but also allows wrestlers to show their exceptional strength and technique.

Scoring System and Points Allocation

Folkstyle wrestling’s scoring system also distinctly separates it from other styles. A successful takedown awards two points to the wrestler who brings their opponent to the mat under control. However, if the wrestler accomplishes a reversal of the takedown, taking control from their opponent while on the mat, they are awarded two points.

Moreover, near falls in folkstyle wrestling score additional points when the top wrestler holds the bottom wrestler in a dangerous position for two to four seconds. Lastly, an escape, when the bottom wrestler gets out from underneath and reaches a standing position, earns one point. The full rule system is a bit more complex, but these are some of the rules that distinguish Folkytyle wrestling from other forms of grappling. This unique scoring system adds a layer of complexity to the sport while enhancing its appeal to both competitors and spectators. These unique rules work especially well for a defensive wrestler.

Comparing Folkstyle to Freestyle and Greco-Roman Wrestling

Wrestler competing at a folkstyle wrestling competition — *U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Brian McCrum, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons*

Although folkstyle wrestling bears similarities to freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling, it also exhibits distinctive differences. For instance, Greco-Roman wrestling only allows attacks above the waist, disallowing leg attacks and penalizing the touching of the legs, which differs significantly from both folkstyle and freestyle wrestling. Another key distinction lies in the rules of point allocation and the techniques that are allowed in each style.

Unlike freestyle and Greco-Roman matches, folkstyle wrestling matches consist of three periods. In contrast, the former have two periods with a 30-second break in between. Regardless of these differences, pinning the opponent’s shoulders to the mat conclusively ends the match in all three wrestling styles.

Scoring Differences

Clear scoring differences exist between folkstyle, freestyle, and Greco-Roman wrestling. For example:

In folkstyle wrestling, a technical fall is achieved with a 15-point lead, compared to a 10-point lead in freestyle and an 8-point lead in Greco-Roman wrestling.
Takedowns in college folkstyle wrestling are worth three points, while in high school folkstyle they are valued at two points.
Freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling offer 2, 4, or 5 points for takedowns.

Reversals in folkstyle wrestling award two points, whereas in freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling they are worth only one point. These differences in scoring make a difference in the way each style is competed with, and that’s one of the main reasons each style looks different.

Techniques and Allowed Moves

Folkstyle wrestling also has unique rules regarding certain moves. For instance, locking hands on the opponent’s torso or legs is only permitted during a pinning combination or executing a takedown, as opposed to freestyle wrestling, where locking hands is allowed when riding. Moreover, heavy slams, which generate significant points in freestyle wrestling, are not permitted in folkstyle wrestling.

Additionally, folkstyle wrestling awards points for escapes, which is not a scored action in freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling, where instead a stand-up is initiated if no score occurs from the par terre position. These rules and restrictions shape the strategies and techniques folkstyle wrestlers employ during matches and contribute to the uniqueness of the style.

Folkstyle Wrestling in Education and Sports Programs

Folkstyle wrestling at a tournament — *Ron Wise from USA, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons*

Folkstyle wrestling is more than just a sport; it’s a vital aspect of many education and sports programs across America. Scholastic wrestling at the high school level has expanded alongside collegiate wrestling, with the first high school tournaments starting after the establishment of college competitions. However, the lack of high school governing body sanctions for Olympic wrestling styles results in decreased exposure and participation in freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling at that level.

Furthermore, the prevalence of folkstyle wrestling ‘super tournaments’ has contributed to a diminishing of the visibility and perceived importance of freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling within high school and collegiate sports programs.

High School Collegiate Wrestling

High school, scholastic wrestling, and collegiate wrestling are all essentially folkstyle wrestling, and this style of wrestling is practiced nationwide in the United States. This sport provides a rigorous environment, demanding intense physical conditioning and mental preparation. Although the sport is demanding, many young athletes enjoy practicing and competing in wrestling.

According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, wrestling is one of the most popular sports for boys in schools. Furthermore, girls’ participation in high school wrestling has been gaining momentum, with the first official all-girls team established in 1993 in Massachusetts, highlighting a trend toward greater inclusivity.

Collegiate Wrestling

Collegiate wrestling programs in the United States offer approximately 395 men’s programs across the following levels:

NCAA Division 1
NCAA Division 2
NCAA Division 3
NAIA
Junior College

These programs present a range of competitive environments suitable for different student-athlete needs and goals. NCAA Division 2 and 3 programs, as well as those in the NAIA and at junior colleges, deliver various balance options between athletics, academics, and personal life, targeting overall student development.

College wrestling matches are structured into three periods of 3, 2, and 2 minutes each, establishing a unique rhythm and strategic approach for folkstyle wrestlers. Carter Starocci is a collegiate wrestler who won the 2023 NCAA Championship. Athletes like this are held in high regard and show the level of competition and prestige that collegiate wrestling holds in the sports community during the wrestling season.

Transitioning from Folkstyle to Freestyle and Greco-Roman for International Competitions

Wrestling tournament with folkstyle wrestlers competing — Max Talbot-Minkin from USA, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

For athletes aiming to compete in international events like the Olympic Games and World Championships, transitioning from folkstyle to freestyle or Greco-Roman wrestling is essential. However, the transition can be challenging due to differences in training intensity and competition stress. The transition can also be hindered if coaches lack experience in freestyle or Greco-Roman wrestling.

However, the adoption of a high-performance training program with periodized plans, incorporating distinct seasons and rest periods, can ease the transition for these athletes.

Challenges and Benefits of Transitioning

Transitioning from folkstyle to Olympic wrestling styles requires a planned approach, including breaks and deliberately reduced competition schedules, to prevent burnout and sustain an athlete’s enthusiasm. Wrestlers might find transitioning challenging after a demanding folkstyle season due to needing a break, or they may struggle due to a lack of access to coaches who have expertise in freestyle or Greco-Roman wrestling.

Transitioning to Olympic wrestling styles not only enhances existing folkstyle skills, but also provides exposure to international competition and the chance to meet new people within the wrestling community. Engaging with Olympic wrestling styles in an Olympic sport can spark or strengthen an athlete’s long-term ambitions, like becoming a world or Olympic champion. However, these aspirations can only be reached at the absolute peak of the sport of wrestling, and a solid collegiate wrestling background is usually necessary before looking to the Olympics.

Success Stories of American Wrestlers

American wrestlers who have successfully transitioned from folkstyle to freestyle or Greco-Roman wrestling have achieved notable success. Some have even won medals at World, Pan American, and Olympic competitions. The transition from a strong folkstyle background has led wrestlers to national and global victories in both freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling.

Athletes who excel in folkstyle wrestling at the high school and college levels may advance to the national and international levels in freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling, often capturing state and national titles along the way. Top NCAA Division I wrestling programs have been instrumental in developing athletes who maintain long undefeated runs and compete in Olympic trials and other national events, often earning top placements.

Folkstyle Wrestling for Martial Arts and Combat Sports

The usefulness of folkstyle wrestling techniques extends beyond the wrestling mat; they prove beneficial in martial arts and combat sports due to their focus on controlling an opponent on the ground. The ground-control aspects of folkstyle wrestling translate into effective ground-and-pound techniques within MMA.

These wrestling-based ground control techniques are not only useful in wrestling practiced as a sport but also practical for real-world self-defense situations.

Techniques and Skills Transferable to MMA and BJJ

Folkstyle wrestling techniques can be effectively utilized in MMA and BJJ, especially for ground fighting and controlling an opponent. A strong foundation in folkstyle wrestling equips fighters with an advantage during ground combat due to the emphasis on top control and positional dominance.

Numerous successful MMA fighters, known for their ground-and-pound approaches, have wrestling backgrounds, highlighting the applicability of folkstyle wrestling skills in MMA.

MMA Fighters with Folkstyle Backgrounds

Prominent MMA fighters have utilized their folkstyle wrestling backgrounds to achieve success in their mixed martial arts careers. Fighters like Henry Cejudo, Kamaru Usman, Daniel Cormier, and Randy Couture all started out with folkstyle wrestling backgrounds, and they all became UFC World Champions.

Fighters usually agree that wrestling is the best base for an MMA fighter, and those who have no wrestling skills would not be able to compete in the sport. Folkstyle wrestling is well recognized for its effectiveness in establishing control and ground technique, making it a solid base for MMA.

Summary

In the world of combat sports, folkstyle wrestling stands out with its rich history and unique characteristics. From its historical roots in Native American tribes and European settlers to its critical role in contemporary education and sports programs, folkstyle wrestling has made a statement. Its unique emphasis on control and ground technique and distinct scoring system make it an endlessly fascinating wrestling style for enthusiasts and athletes alike. Whether you’re a wrestling fan, an aspiring athlete, or a martial artist, understanding folkstyle wrestling can enrich your appreciation for this sport and its influence on the broader world of combat sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between folkstyle and freestyle wrestling?

The main difference between folkstyle and freestyle wrestling is that folkstyle emphasizes maintaining control over the opponent, especially on the ground, while freestyle prioritizes the execution of moves. This distinction determines the focus and strategy within each style.

How does the scoring system in folkstyle wrestling work?

In folkstyle wrestling, the scoring system awards three points for a takedown, two points for a reversal, and additional points for near falls, with an escape earning one point. This system determines the points earned during a match.

Why is transitioning from folkstyle to freestyle or Greco-Roman wrestling important?

Transitioning from folkstyle to freestyle or Greco-Roman wrestling is important for athletes aiming to compete at international competitions like the Olympic Games, which feature Greco-Roman wrestling.

How beneficial is folkstyle wrestling in martial arts and combat sports?

Folkstyle wrestling techniques, particularly those emphasizing control and ground technique, can be effectively applied in mixed martial arts and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, making it beneficial in combat sports and martial arts.