How to Be a State Champion Wrestler

While only a few wrestlers can become state champions, all high school athletes can take steps year round to improve health and athletic performance. Pursuing opportunities to develop wrestling skill and technique outside the season can give an edge over other competitors. Good nutrition and continued athletic conditioning can also enhance athletic performance. Work with your coach and other fitness professionals to develop a strategy for year round athletic development.

Instructions

    • 1

      Continue your wrestling education outside the structure of your school's season. Most high school coaches are extremely limited in giving hands-on instruction outside the wrestling season. Ask your coach if he can suggest an off-season mentor or if he has other recommendations for year-round training resources. Attending summer wrestling camps can facilitate gaining invaluable skills from some extremely experienced coaches. Read books about wrestling technique and watch wrestling matches for further exposure to the sport.

    • 2

      Develop strong diet habits that can facilitate good fitness and aid in maintaining a healthy weight year round. Proper nutrition and a balanced diet are essential components of strong athletic performance. It is important to stay healthy year round as rapid weight loss in season can be unhealthy and lead to weakened athletic performance. Ask your coach for dietary recommendations or work with a registered dietitian to develop an eating plan that can help maintain fighting weight year round.

    • 3

      Exercise year round and continue to hone fitness in the off season. Ask your coach for recommendations on a good off-season training regime and research the regimens of other champion wrestlers. An organized routine that combines rigorous cardiovascular exercise with strength training will maintain athletic prowess. Working with a coach or wrestling mentor can ensure the regimen is neither too strenuous or inadequate. Personal trainers can also assist in preventing debilitating injury from over training or incorrect positioning.