Forms of traditional or folk wrestling can be found in all regions of the world. They are the expression of the ancestral cultures upon which our modern societies were built.
Wrestling has always played an important role in the civilizations’ everyday life by being tightly connected to myths, military activities, religious and political rites, and festivities. Wrestling contests are still held in numerous countries at times of national celebrations, farm work (sowing, harvest, etc.), baptisms, engagements, weddings, or funerals. Contests are generally held outdoors on village squares, clearings, or special arenas and take place on sand, clay, sawdust, grass, snow, or even on hard surfaces. Traditional wrestling endows countless variations and can be practised on horses, with oil-coated skin, with the use of fixed or loose belts, and in different uniforms, such as leather pants in Turkey, tunics in Georgia, drawers and doublets with heavy leather boots in Mongolia, or colourful ritual sets in Africa.
Πηγή: FILA
