How to Do a Bear Hug in Wrestling

In wrestling, while competitors are on their feet, they often tie up with their arms when working for a position to go for a takedown. There are many moves that can be used from a tied up position and one of the most basic is the bear hug. This technique utilizes a burst of raw strength to topple an opponent with the goal of securing a quick pin.

Things You'll Need

  • A partner
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Instructions

    • 1

      While on your feet, tie up with your opponent and secure underhooks with both arms. An underhook is simply putting your arm around your opponent, under his arm, rather than over it. Underhooks are generally a desirable position when tying up, so your opponent will try to deprive you from getting two underhooks in. You may have to pummel with your opponent for a while before you can get both in.

    • 2

      Lock your hands behind your opponent's back.

    • 3

      Squeeze your opponent in toward you while lifting upward, straighting him from his normal stance. This will make him less stable. When he is straightened, pressure forward with your chest and pull him in with your arms, drawing his mass under the forward pressure of your chest.

    • 4

      As you try to force your opponent over straight backward, you can step forward around the outside of one of his feet as you push forward in an attempt to trip him up.

    • 5

      If your opponent falls straight to his back, which is likely, keep your underhooks in, or take one out to switch to a grip around his arm and head. Stay face to face and parallel with your opponent and wrap both your legs around the outsides of his legs. Squeeze and arch your back for additional pressure.