When people watch a wrestling match, they often cheer for the big hits and slams without realizing the technique behind each move and what it takes to execute them. Here are the top five essential moves performed on the mat.
The first move is called Stance & Motion. This is the foundation for all techniques, focusing on balance and movement. The proper stance includes feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent slightly, weight centered, hips low, chest up, and hands active on the chest or head. Good motion like this makes simple moves look sharp and clean.
The next move is called a Headlock, which is essential for control and transitions. This move is executed by securing the opponent’s head under the arm, placing the forearm across the jaw, locking the hands palm-to-palm or with a wrist grip, and keeping hips back with feet staggered. The pressure comes from proper body positioning, not actually squeezing the neck.
The next move is a Clothesline, a simple but impactful strike. The wrestler runs past the opponent’s line of motion, extends their arms across the neck or chest line, rotates the shoulders through contact, then keeps arms firm and controlled. The goal is to make the opponent flip or snap back dramatically.
Girls Wrestling sophomore Kendall White says, “My favorite move would probably be an outside carry because it is very technical and no one can really sprawl from it,” said White.
Next is the Spear. This move is executed through the lower shoulder level, driving through the opponent’s midsection, stepping through but not down. The opponent jumps and flips upon impact. Although it looks like a tackle, the Spear is actually about guiding and absorbing the opponent’s movement rather than forcefully taking them down.
The final move is the Arm Drag. This move pulls the opponent’s arm across their body to disrupt the balance they have created and creates an opening. The purpose of this move is to break the opponent’s stance, get behind them or to the side, and set up takedowns.
Many elite athletes rely on these moves to successfully take down their opponents. Being able to execute techniques like these is essential for winning a match.
“The outside carry is a very quick move that no one expects,” said White. “When I get into the move, they would expect it to be a single leg, but instead I bring their arm around and fold their body in half.”
