Youth Inc. Recommends: Five Resources for Wrestlers to Train Smarter

Wrestling is a sport where the training in practice and time spent off the mat are more important than what one does in actual competition. Often, the daunting work both inside and outside of practice can seem unapproachable when beginning, so here are five sources that break down basic moves, drills a wrestler can do on and off the mat, as well as ways to avoid burnout during the grind that is wrestling. 

Wrestling Moves You Should Learn (Beginner’s Guide) 

What it is: A wrestler and his father discuss introductory moves that wrestlers should be familiar with as they begin to compete and practice.

Why we like it: This is a great first step for wrestlers making their foray into the wrestling world. While moves are what’s talked about the most in this video, drills and common early wrestling practice experiences are touched upon, giving the wrestler a good idea of what to expect in their first steps into the sport. 

Kids Wrestling Tips 

What it is: A list providing strategies for all aspects of wrestling, including pre-match, post-match, and off-the-mat tips. 

Why we like it: When starting wrestling, athletes can use this source as a general basis for strategizing during matches and the time leading up to them.  Details are broken down in easy-to-follow steps, laying out a good basis for someone just beginning their wrestling journey. 

10 Top Youth Wrestling Drills and Workouts for Coaches 

What it is: A detailed list of drills to keep wrestlers in shape, conditioning-wise, while also providing drills on wrestling techniques.

Why we like it: This is an excellent source geared towards both wrestlers and coaches. For one, several of these drills can be done at home outside of practice, allowing wrestlers to continue their training once they leave the mat. This can also work for coaches, as unique team-centered drills are given that can be implemented at practice. 

23 Wrestling Drills You Can Do By Yourself At Home 

What it is: A short video by a former Wrestling All-American on technique drills wrestlers can do by themselves.

Why we like it: This is a valuable source for wrestlers, as most at-home tips focus on conditioning and cardio, while this dives into moves used both in matches and in practice. For wrestlers just starting out, this is a great way to build fundamentals and improve skills for both competition and practice.

How wrestlers can avoid burnout & injuries & peak at the right time  

What it is: An article focusing on ways to stay in shape for wrestling season while also not exhausting oneself with the sport.

Why we like it: This article is a valuable resource for newer wrestlers and parents. It details ways to stay healthy in and out of season, while also touching on the psychological side and how to maintain a passion for the sport without experiencing burnout.