history of wrestling

Wrestling is one of the oldest sports in human history, with origins dating back thousands of years. It has been practiced in various forms and cultures throughout the world.

Ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all had their own versions of wrestling. In ancient Greece, wrestling was a prominent sport and was included in the Olympic Games. It was considered a fundamental part of Greek culture and was highly regarded for its physical and mental benefits.

During the Middle Ages, wrestling continued to be practiced, often as a form of military training and combat preparation. It was also a popular form of entertainment during festivals and celebrations.

In the 19th century, modern wrestling began to take shape. Various styles and techniques were developed, and wrestling competitions became more organized. The establishment of wrestling clubs and associations helped to standardize rules and promote the sport.

In the early 20th century, international wrestling federations were formed to govern the sport globally. The International Federation of Associated Wrestling Styles (FILA) was founded in 1905 and later became United World Wrestling (UWW) in 2014. UWW is responsible for organizing international wrestling competitions and maintaining the rules and regulations of the sport.

Wrestling has been a part of the Olympic Games since its revival in 1896. It is one of the core sports in the Olympics and has both freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling disciplines. Freestyle wrestling allows for the use of both the upper and lower body, while Greco-Roman wrestling only permits holds and techniques using the upper body.

Today, wrestling continues to be a popular sport worldwide, with numerous national and international competitions held regularly. It requires strength, agility, technique, and mental toughness, making it a challenging and exciting sport to watch and participate in.