How to Wrestle a Defensive Wrestler
No two wrestlers are alike. While some like to take their opponents to the ground, others prefer to keep the match as high as possible. If you’re a very aggressive wrestler, it can be hard to know what to do when challenging a defensive opponent. When you lunge, they retreat. Here’s how to get the upper hand on a wrestler who makes you come to him.
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Instructions
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Understand the defensive wrestler’s mindset. This can be very tricky, because there is no perfectly accurate way to know what someone else is thinking. Some defensive wrestlers, especially new ones, are scared to get into a grappling position. They might feel that they aren’t very good at escaping holds, so they don’t want to get close until they know they can take you. Some defensive wrestlers may be trying to tire you out, waiting for you to make a mistake. Once you have an idea of what they’re thinking, do the opposite to lure them into your trap.
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Run through drills designed to entrap the defensive wrestler. Since that kind of opponent is reluctant to get into a grappling situation, practice this with the following drill: While standing, grip your sparring partner’s shoulders with your thumbs in their armpits. After the whistle, both wrestlers should move while maintaining balance and sliding efficiently. Practice being both aggressive and defensive.
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Don’t let them use your momentum against you. They’re waiting for you to be aggressive, at which time they’ll help you follow your path and take the primary position. Turn the tables by forcing them to come to you. Once the defensive wrestler has been forced to take a more aggressive role in the match, they’re more likely to make mistakes.
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Fool them into thinking you’re also a defensive wrestler. Before the whistle, assume a more rounded, weaker posture. Your facial expression should also lead your opponent to believe that you’re afraid or unsure. Lull the defensive wrestler into a false sense of security so he thinks he’s the stronger competitor. Then pin him to the mat before he knows what’s happening.
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Match yin with yang. A defensive wrestler may be set in his ways, and you should have the ability to change tactics as necessary. If he is especially sensitive about attacks at his base, don’t bother with anything above his waist. A defensive wrestler is trying to protect something or get through a match in a cautious manner. It’s your job to disrupt that plan and win.
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