Wrist Control

How to practice wrist control

Start with a cooperative partner on a wrestling mat. Have a coach check the starting position and contact before adding resistance. These notes describe one introductory approach; the linked demonstration may show a variation.

Partner role

The partner offers a normal arm position and responds to the small push or pull with a natural step. Do not clamp the grip or hide the arm before the athlete has practiced creating a visible opening.

1. 1

   Approach from stance and make contact without reaching beyond your base. Hold around the wrist with a normal grip rather than grabbing individual fingers.

2. 2

   Keep your elbow close enough to your body that the grip is supported. Use a small push or pull together with a step to make the partner react.

3. 3

   Guide the wrist away from the leg you want to attack. Let the partner’s reaction tell you when the lane is open instead of forcing a shot through their arm.

4. 4

   Release or change the grip as you enter. The tie is useful because it creates an opening; holding it after the opening passes can make you late.

Common mistakes and corrections

Squeezing harder is not a substitute for moving the opponent. Add a step and a clear direction.

Reaching across with both hands can expose your own legs. Keep your stance and head position available.