Folkstyle rules

Folkstyle wrestling, common in American high schools and colleges, focuses on controlling an opponent on the mat. Points are awarded for takedowns, escapes, reversals, and near-falls. Matches start with both wrestlers standing; points are earned by executing takedowns to bring the opponent to the mat and maintaining control. The goal is to score more points than the opponent within the set time. The match is divided into periods, with specific rules for stalling, positioning, and scoring escapes or reversals. Safety and sportsmanship are emphasized, and technical criteria are used to ensure fair competition.