How to Use Proper Top Position in Wrestling

The top position is a dominant wrestling position that allows you to transition into point-earning pins and moves. The top position also serves as a starting position once the wrestling match has begun and rewards the point-earning wrestler with a dominant start.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Get your opponent to kneel on the ground with both hands planted, elbows slightly bent and sitting "on the laces," or with his feet tucked underneath his hamstrings and shoelaces facing down. Allow the referee to ask your opponent if he's ready (or if you're just practicing ask him yourself).
2. Approach your opponent from behind and plant your left knee just to the side of your opponent's left foot. Close the fingers of your left hand but leave your thumb separate from the other four fingers to make a "V." Place the cleft of the "V" on your opponent's elbow.
3. Reach around your opponent's waist with your right hand so that your palm rests over his navel. Plant your right foot by right foot and leverage your weight forward and over the top of your opponent so you maximize the advantages of the position.
4. Use the position by trying to pull or push your opponent's left arm out from under once you start the wrestling match. Keep a tight grip around your opponent's waist and make sure that you bear down on him with your weight and the force of pushing your feet against the ground so you maintain the top position and don't end up prey to a reversal.