Background
Competition is between two individuals matched in terms of maturity, general development, weight and gender.  the winner is generally decided in two ways:

 a)  by a fall (pinning both shoulders of one's opponent to the mat for 1 second) or
 b)  to the wrestler who scores the most points.

History
Wrestling is one of the oldest sports known to man.  It was included in early Olympic Games and is presently contested at the Olympic Games in two styles namely, Greco-roman and Free-Style.  It is Free-Style that is mostly practised in the UK.  National championships are held at schoolchild, junior and senior levels.  Outstanding wrestlers may go on to compete in International Competitions including European, World and Olympics.  Wrestling is club based within the UK although some schools have wrestling in their curriculum.  Amateur Wrestling should not be confused with Professional Wrestling.  The former is a sport, the latter an entertainment.

Facilities and Equipment
Domestic and International Competition takes place on an approved mat with a 9 metre diameter circle, surrounded by a 1.5 metre border of the same thickness.  Training can take place on gymnastic mats velcroed together or otherwise fixed, so s to prevent any parting that may cause injury.  For competition wrestlers wear red or blue leotards and wrestling boots.  Headguards are sometimes worn.  Wrestling is an inexpensive sport.  Most clubs will take members from 7 years of age, those under 18 require parental consent.

Benefits of participating
To be successful in competition particularly at International Level you will need to acquire good balance, flexibility, explosive power, speed and endurance.  Wrestling certainly enhances physical development and fitness.  It also develops positive attitudes towards success and failure, breeds self-confidence and raises self-esteem.

Variations
The only real variation is to be found in the style of wrestling practised.  There are, however, a number of team competitions but wrestling bouts are contested by two persons only.