Q: What do I need to do get in shape for wrestling?

Short answer: The cardiovascular demands of wrestling are very similar to other stop/start sports in that the intensity level changes dramatically throughout the contest. Any type of basic, interval cardio training is a good start.

More info: Students of our camp shouldn’t view the camp itself as a means to get in shape. We focus on learning and applying the wrestling craft. Students of the camp should not expect any needlessly painful chop drills, "Tough Enough" or boot camp style conditioning. It is our belief that it is the student’s responsibility to work on their conditioning and physique on the days they are not at camp. There is a saying in this business "Nothing gets you in shape for wrestling like wrestling". Students who advance to actual matches can get a great cardio workout by wrestling consecutive matches. We don’t condone the use of steroids to improve your physique, but we do encourage our students to workout and be in the best shape they can be in for two very important reasons:

1. Poor endurance can lead to poor wrestling performance. The abilities to think clearly in the ring and communicate are compromised when you become too tired. Regardless of your physical strength, when you are winded, your strength dissipates and causes a potentially unsafe situation for an opponent that you are attempting to lift.

2. Wrestling is a very competitive business. There are new wrestlers constantly entering the talent pool, competing for spots on the same shows. Having a good physique can help your chances of being booked more than your peers.