Become Fighter
Folkstyle, freestyle and scoring: Wrestling guide
How the main rulesets score, and what that does to your game.
Rules shape style. Folkstyle rewards control and riding time. Freestyle rewards exposure and quick scoring. Know your event's rules before you plan anything.
In folkstyle, takedowns score two points, escapes one, reversals two, and near falls two to four depending on how long the opponent's back is exposed. Riding time can decide close matches at some levels.
In freestyle, takedowns score two points, bigger throws score four or five, and exposure scores two. Pushouts and passivity calls also matter.
Rules differ by organisation and age group. Ask your coach or the event organiser for the exact scoring.
Key points
- Folkstyle: control, escapes and riding time matter.
- Freestyle: quick takedowns, exposure and big throws matter.
- Pushouts and passivity calls can swing a close match.
- Know the scoring before the match, not during it.
- Match your training to the rules you will compete under.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Training for the wrong ruleset. Match your drills to the rules of your event.
- Not knowing the scoring. You cannot manage a match if you do not know the score.
- Ignoring passivity rules. Stalling gives points away. Keep attacking.
The rest is in the app
The step-by-step breakdown, the timed drill with the coach calling the shots and the quiz are part of Become Fighter Pro, where this lesson sits in the Match craft module of Wrestling foundations.
Get it on Google Play. Coming soon to the App Store.
More from Match craft
- Period strategy and game plan: Wrestling guide
- Competition day: Wrestling guide
- Corner communication and reading opponents: Wrestling guide
Combat sports training is hard on the body. Warm up, stay within your limits and check with a doctor first if you have a health condition. Practise in a clear space and stop if you feel pain or dizziness. Learn partner work only under a qualified coach.