Beach wrestling
Table of Contents
History of Beach wrestling
Beach wrestling is the youngest discipline within the sport. Established in 2004, this format stands apart from traditional wrestling styles by being held outdoors and on sand. It is considered a more dynamic and entertaining variation of wrestling, offering a more accessible and visually engaging experience for both spectators and athletes. The main goal behind the creation of beach wrestling was to broaden the sport’s appeal and boost its popularity during the summer season, particularly in tourist regions.
The first Beach Wrestling World Championship was held in Turkey in 2006. Since 2019, world champions have been determined based on the cumulative points earned at different stages of the annual World Series. The World Series typically consists of four or five stages. Beach wrestling is part of the Youth Olympic Games program, as recognized by the International Olympic Committee. There is growing anticipation that this discipline may soon be included in the Olympic Games for senior athletes as well.
Rules
Beach wrestling differs significantly from other styles in terms of time and rules. There is no ground wrestling (parterre position) involved—the bout is contested entirely from a standing position. Each match lasts three minutes, but if one wrestler reaches three points first, the match ends early with that athlete declared the winner. Bouts take place in a circular sand arena with a diameter of approximately 7 meters. In this simplified format, points are scored by making the opponent touch the ground with their knees or upper body, or by pushing them out of the ring. Techniques are awarded either 1 or 3 points. If the score is tied at the end of the match, victory goes to the wrestler who scored the last point.
Athletes in this discipline compete wearing only shorts. Beach wrestling emphasizes endurance, balance, and physical strength. Strong leg muscles are especially important for performing at a high level on sand. Endurance plays a key role as well, since executing each technical move requires significantly more energy than on standard surfaces.
Men compete in four weight categories: 70 kg, 80 kg, 90 kg, and +90 kg, while women compete in 50 kg, 60 kg, 70 kg, and +70 kg divisions
The road to growth and wrestlers who left a mark
In Azerbaijan, the development of beach wrestling began in 2019. By 2022, the country’s U17 and U20 national teams had both captured world and European championship titles. Azerbaijani athletes have also made their mark at the World Beach Games, with several individuals earning the title of world champion. Among the standout names in this discipline are Oyan Nazariani, Ibrahim Yusubov, and Ramiz Hasanov.