Tips for Un-Athletic Wrestlers
Many wrestlers have asked me what to do when they are "un-athletic." There are countless ways to improve, but here are just a few that may help you bridge the gap:
Emulate Similar Wrestlers’ Body Styles
Everyone is "dealt" a certain card. I wrestle 70 KG standing at 5'6", which means I don't exactly have leverage on my side. So, I really started to focus on refining my style and emulating those who have found success with a similar body type and style. I watched Frank Molinaro, Henry Cejudo, Chad Mendes, Steven Abas, Etc. I haven't seen you wrestle, so I can't recommend any specific wrestlers, but do your research and be a student of the sport. It's your career— take ownership of it!
Improve Your Athleticism
Even if you aren't naturally a "freak," you can always do more to improve your athleticism. Keep lifting, work on your grip strength, go do some cross-training, etc. Once you get a little stronger, faster, and more flexible, and your technique improves even more, your skills will begin to shine.
Drill to Perfection
I can't stress this enough—drill perfectly. Improve your timing. Work a few setups and get to where you can drill them flawlessly at a blistering speed. If you don't want to wrestle like a grinder, don't drill like one. You need to learn how to "burn" people to where you take them down without as much fight. Good timing makes wrestling SO much easier. Being a lanky wrestler gives you more reach, so use this to your advantage. Tailor your wrestling style to the body that you have, and then perfect it with drilling!
Set In-Match Goals
If you go out there just to fight, that's what you're going to get. Know how to hold good positioning with your head and hands, and don't let your opponent impose his will. Also, set actual scoring goals. Mine was always two takedowns in the first period. Once I got that, I built on my lead. People do not want to fight nearly as much when they are losing early, so give them an excuse to give up. And guess what? Two takedowns in the first gets much easier when you focus on timing and drilling to perfection. Recognize your openings, take them early, and keep your foot on the gas. Before you know it, you'll be tech-falling good wrestlers.
Map Out Your Wrestling Style
Write it all down on a piece of paper. What moves do you know, and where are the holes in your game? What are people beating you with exactly? Is the problem really just athleticism, or are you not making the most of each position? Visually seeing everything may make the whole picture clearer. Do this with your athletic training, also.
Be Mentally Tough
Easier said than done, I know. But don't let your perceived "flaws" fester in your head. Wrestling is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Work on developing a strong mindset, and focus on building your mental toughness. Visualize success, stay positive, and stay motivated. Develop a pre-match routine to help you get in the right headspace. Focus on getting 1% better each and every day, and the winning will take care of itself.
Lean on Your Coaches and Teammates
A good coach can help you identify your weaknesses and work on improving them. Look for a coach or mentor who has experience working with wrestlers of all skill levels, including those who aren't naturally athletic. Look for someone who is knowledgeable, supportive, encouraging, and willing to work with you to help you achieve your goals.
Lastly, this sport is not easy. It takes constant work and innovation, and even when you start finding success, you'll have to improve once again if you want to find more. 1% better.
Good luck!
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