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New Wave Jiu Jitsu

🌊Wrestling (Ages 13+)

Build a Strong Foundation!

Develop the core skills every grappler needs in our 60-minute beginner wrestling class! Designed for ages 13+, this program focuses on fundamental wrestling techniques that directly translate to Judo, BJJ, MMA, and self-defense. Whether you're completely new to grappling or looking to sharpen your takedowns and control, this class will give you the tools to dominate on the mats.
Two grapplers in a wrestling stance on a mat, focused on takedown techniques in a beginner wrestling class for ages 13 and up at New Wave Jiu Jitsu.

Class Highlights

🔥 Takedowns & Entries – Master singles, doubles, and clinch-based takedowns
🔄 Positional Control – Learn how to secure top position with pins and rides
🛡️ Defense & Escapes – Build a strong base and prevent being taken down
🤼 Tie-Ups & Grips – Develop essential hand-fighting for Judo and BJJ
🏋️ Grappling Conditioning – Improve explosive power, agility, and endurance
Why This Class?
✅ Grappling Cross-Training – Perfect for Judoka, BJJ players, and MMA enthusiasts
✅ Beginner-Friendly – No experience needed, just a willingness to learn
✅ Safe & Structured – Progressive drills with controlled resistance
✅ Build Athleticism – Develop balance, coordination, and functional strength
📅 Duration: 60 minutes
👊 Ages: 13+ (Teens & Adults)
🥋 Perfect For: Anyone looking to start wrestling or improve their grappling game!
Lay the foundation for grappling success—your journey starts here!
Sign up today and take your first step toward becoming a well-rounded grappler! 💪🏽🔥

TESTIMONIALS

What our students are saying

"I am so grateful.."

"I am so grateful that my kids have got to be a part of this amazing martial arts studio. The kids not only learn judo/jiu jitsu, but learn respect through their training while having fun and think they are playing and having fun."

- JOSH K.

"We absolutely love it.."

"This place has an amazing atmosphere, plenty of space to roll, very talented instructors, an array of equipment to use! We absolutely love it here and would highly recommend it ❤️"

- KAYLA P.

"place is awesome"

"This place is awesome. We've been coming here for about two years now. Great instructors, safe environment, wonderful for kids and adults alike."

- TARIK P.

Q&A: Wrestling for Teens and Adults (Ages 13+) | New Wave Jiu Jitsu

Wrestling for Teens and Adults (Ages 13+)

Program Benefits & Suitability

Is wrestling a good fit for teens and adults?

Wrestling is an excellent martial art and sport for teens and adults of all experience levels. As one of the world's oldest combat sports, wrestling offers numerous benefits:

  • Exceptional full-body conditioning and strength development
  • Practical self-defense skills through superior balance and leverage
  • Mental toughness and discipline that transfers to all areas of life
  • Adaptable training intensity to match your current fitness level
  • Valuable skills that complement other martial arts like BJJ and MMA

Our wrestling program welcomes all teens and adults (13+), regardless of athletic background or experience. Many of our most dedicated wrestlers started with no prior experience and discovered a passion for the sport in our supportive training environment.

What benefits will I gain from wrestling training?

Wrestling delivers a unique combination of physical, mental, and character-building benefits:

  • Physical development: Superior strength, explosive power, cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, and body awareness
  • Technical skills: Takedowns, pins, escapes, control positions, and transitions that translate to various combat sports
  • Mental fortitude: Discipline, perseverance, strategic thinking, and mental toughness under pressure
  • Practical application: Effective self-defense skills and excellent base for MMA and other combat sports
  • Weight management: Healthy body composition and effective conditioning methods
  • Confidence: Increased self-assurance that comes from physical capability and overcoming challenges

Many of our adult students also report improved posture, reduced stress, better sleep, and increased energy in their daily lives as a result of consistent wrestling training.

How is wrestling different from other martial arts?

Wrestling stands apart from other martial arts in several key ways:

  • Focus on takedowns and control: Unlike striking arts (Muay Thai, boxing) or submission grappling (BJJ), wrestling emphasizes taking opponents down and controlling them
  • Olympic and collegiate tradition: Wrestling has standardized rules and competition formats recognized worldwide
  • No submissions or strikes: Wrestling focuses purely on positional dominance rather than submissions or striking techniques
  • Superior stand-up grappling: Wrestling provides the most comprehensive takedown system of any martial art
  • Intensity and pace: Wrestling typically has a higher pace and physical intensity than many other martial arts
  • Competitive focus: While self-defense benefits exist, wrestling is primarily developed as a competitive sport

Wrestling serves as an outstanding foundation for any combat sports athlete, and many UFC champions and top martial artists have wrestling backgrounds. The skills you develop will complement any other martial arts training you pursue.

Am I too old/inexperienced to start wrestling?

Absolutely not! While wrestling is often associated with youth programs, our adult program is specifically designed to welcome beginners of any age (13+). Many of our most dedicated students began wrestling in their teens, 20s, 30s, and beyond.

We structure our classes to accommodate different experience levels and physical abilities. Beginners work on fundamental skills and conditioning appropriate to their current fitness level, while more advanced wrestlers can challenge themselves with complex techniques and higher-intensity drills.

Wrestling is highly adaptable - techniques can be modified based on your body type, athletic ability, and previous experience. Our coaches are experienced in teaching wrestling to adult beginners and will ensure you learn at an appropriate pace.

The most important factors for success in wrestling are consistent attendance, a positive attitude, and willingness to learn - not prior experience or athletic background. Many adults find that wrestling provides a refreshing physical and mental challenge unlike anything else they've experienced.

Safety & Training

Is wrestling safe for beginners with no martial arts experience?

Yes, our wrestling program is designed with safety as a top priority, especially for beginners. We implement several important safety measures:

  • Progressive skill development: Beginners learn fundamentals and proper falling techniques before advancing to more complex moves
  • Appropriate training partners: We carefully pair students based on size, experience level, and intensity
  • Proper warm-up protocols: Comprehensive warm-ups prepare your body for the physical demands of wrestling
  • Quality mats and facilities: Our training area features proper wrestling mats that absorb impact
  • Experienced coaching: Our coaches provide careful supervision and correct technical errors that could lead to injury
  • Ego-free environment: We promote a supportive culture where safety takes precedence over competitiveness

Wrestling does involve physical contact, but our structured approach ensures beginners can learn safely. We emphasize control and technique over strength and aggression, especially for newer students.

As with any physical activity, minor bumps and bruises can occur, but serious injuries are rare when proper instruction and safety protocols are followed. Our coaches will help you train at an appropriate intensity for your experience level.

How do you handle different fitness levels in wrestling classes?

Our wrestling program accommodates students of varying fitness levels through several approaches:

  • Scalable conditioning: Workout components can be modified based on your current fitness level
  • Technique focus: Classes emphasize proper technique over pure athleticism or strength
  • Appropriate pacing: Beginners are encouraged to work at a sustainable pace and take breaks as needed
  • Partner selection: Coaches carefully pair students for drills and live wrestling based on size and experience
  • Progressive intensity: Training intensity increases gradually as your fitness improves
  • Individual coaching: Our instructors provide personalized feedback and modifications

Many beginners worry about their fitness level when starting wrestling. However, the best way to develop "wrestling fitness" is by wrestling! Your conditioning will improve naturally through consistent training.

We've found that students of all fitness levels can participate meaningfully in our classes, and many experience remarkable improvements in strength, cardio, and overall athletic ability within just a few months of consistent training.

How do you prevent injuries during wrestling practice?

Injury prevention is a core focus of our wrestling program. We implement multiple strategies to create a safe training environment:

  • Comprehensive warm-ups: Specific mobility and activation exercises prepare your body for wrestling movements
  • Proper technique emphasis: We prioritize correct form over speed or power, especially for beginners
  • Progressive intensity: Students gradually increase training intensity as they develop proper movement patterns
  • Controlled drilling: Technical drills are practiced with cooperative partners before progressing to resistance
  • Appropriate matchups: Live wrestling sessions pair students of similar size, strength, and experience level
  • Regular body maintenance education: We provide guidance on recovery, stretching, and managing minor soreness
  • Culture of communication: Students are encouraged to communicate discomfort and respect training partners

Our experienced coaches closely monitor practice sessions and provide immediate feedback to correct potentially dangerous movements or positions. They're trained to identify when a student is pushing too hard and needs modification.

Wrestling is a physical sport, but with proper instruction and a safety-minded approach, most students can train consistently without significant injuries.

Competition & Growth

Can I participate in wrestling competitions as a beginner?

Yes! We encourage competition for interested students of all levels, including beginners. Wrestling competitions offer valuable experience that accelerates your growth and development.

For beginners (typically those training less than 1 year), we recommend:

  • Novice divisions: Many tournaments offer specific brackets for beginners
  • Exhibition matches: Friendly matches with similarly experienced wrestlers from other schools
  • In-house competitions: We hold periodic competitions within our academy for students to test their skills
  • Age and weight categories: Competitions group wrestlers by age, weight, and often experience level

Our coaches will help assess when you're ready to compete and will provide guidance on appropriate tournaments. We typically recommend at least 2-3 months of consistent training before your first competition, though this varies by individual.

Competition is completely optional. Many of our students train wrestling purely for fitness, self-improvement, or as a complement to other martial arts without ever competing. However, testing your skills in competition often provides valuable feedback and motivation.

If you're interested in competing, let your coach know, and they'll help prepare you for the experience, including specific competition-focused training sessions.

How will wrestling benefit my overall lifestyle and wellness?

Wrestling provides exceptional benefits that extend far beyond the mat and positively impact your entire life:

  • Physical transformation: Wrestling develops functional strength, power, endurance, and a lean, athletic physique
  • Mental resilience: The challenges of wrestling build psychological toughness that transfers to life's obstacles
  • Stress management: Intense physical training provides a healthy outlet for daily stress and tension
  • Improved sleep quality: The physical exertion of wrestling practice helps regulate sleep patterns
  • Healthy eating habits: Many wrestlers naturally develop better nutritional awareness
  • Time management skills: Consistent training encourages better organization in other areas of life
  • Confidence in physical capabilities: Knowing your body's strength and abilities builds everyday confidence
  • Community connection: Wrestling provides a supportive social group with shared goals and values

Many of our adult students report that wrestling training provides structure and purpose to their fitness routine that was previously missing. The clear progression of skill development keeps you engaged and motivated far longer than typical gym workouts.

Additionally, the problem-solving nature of wrestling creates cognitive benefits that carry over to work, education, and daily decision-making. The discipline required to improve in wrestling often translates to greater self-discipline in other life areas.

Will wrestling help me if I'm shy/anxious/high-energy?

Wrestling offers unique benefits for different personality types and temperaments:

For shy or socially anxious individuals:

  • Develops confidence through physical capability and skill mastery
  • Provides structured social interaction centered around a shared activity
  • Creates natural connections through partner drills and team training
  • Builds self-assurance that extends to other social situations

For high-energy individuals:

  • Offers a productive channel for physical energy and intensity
  • Provides appropriate physical challenges that satisfy the need for exertion
  • Develops focus and controlled application of energy
  • Improves ability to modulate effort and intensity appropriately

For those with anxiety or stress:

  • Creates mental presence through focusing on immediate physical challenges
  • Releases tension through physical exertion
  • Builds resilience through overcoming difficult situations
  • Develops breath control techniques that help manage anxiety

Our wrestling community includes individuals from all backgrounds and personality types. The shared challenge of wrestling training often helps people break through personal barriers and develop aspects of themselves they didn't know existed.

We've seen countless students transform through wrestling - shy individuals becoming more confident, anxious people finding calm through physical challenge, and high-energy individuals developing discipline and focus.

Getting Started

What should I bring to my first wrestling class?

Getting ready for your first wrestling class is simple. Here's what you'll need:

  • Athletic clothing: T-shirt and athletic shorts or compression gear/spats
  • Wrestling shoes: Recommended but not required for your first few classes (we may have loaners available)
  • Water bottle: Stay hydrated during the intense workout
  • Towel: Wrestling is a sweaty activity!
  • Mouthguard: Optional but recommended for protection
  • Earguards: Optional for beginners, more important as you advance

What NOT to bring/wear:

  • Jewelry or watches (remove before class)
  • Clothing with zippers, buttons or metal parts
  • Stiff or restrictive clothing
  • Long fingernails (trim them before class)

Additional preparation:

  • Shower before class and maintain good hygiene
  • Eat a light meal 1-2 hours before class (not immediately before)
  • Arrive 15 minutes early to complete any paperwork and meet your coach
  • Be well-hydrated throughout the day

Don't worry about being perfectly prepared for your first class. Our coaches will guide you through everything you need to know, and you can acquire any specialized equipment after you decide to continue with training.

How can I best progress in my wrestling journey?

To make consistent progress in wrestling, consider these key principles:

  • Consistency is key: Regular attendance (2-3 times weekly) will yield much better results than occasional intensive training
  • Focus on fundamentals: Master basic positions and movements before pursuing flashy techniques
  • Embrace discomfort: Wrestling progress comes from pushing through challenging situations
  • Ask questions: Our coaches welcome questions and can provide technical details
  • Drill intentionally: Focus on quality repetitions rather than rushing through movements
  • Record your progress: Keep a training journal noting techniques learned and areas to improve
  • Study the sport: Watch high-level wrestling matches to improve your understanding
  • Cross-train wisely: Complementary strength and conditioning work can accelerate progress
  • Rest appropriately: Allow for proper recovery between intense training sessions
  • Be patient: Wrestling mastery develops over years, not weeks or months

Many beginners focus too much on winning during practice rather than developing techniques. Remember that training is for learning - it's better to attempt new techniques and fail than to rely only on what you already do well.

Our coaches can provide personalized guidance on your development path based on your body type, athletic background, and goals. Don't hesitate to ask for specific feedback on areas you should prioritize in your training.

Wrestling has a steep initial learning curve, but consistent effort yields remarkable results over time. Every champion wrestler started as a beginner - your journey begins with showing up consistently and embracing the process.

New Wave Jiu Jitsu

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