Wrestling Offense: Penetration Step

You’ll need to have the right offensive moves in your arsenal to score pins over your opponents. Many of these techniques will start with a penetration step.

An effective penetration step can be hard to defend while also helping you to score points. By working on this technique, you can boost your attack on the mat.

“The penetration step is used in many offensive attacks in wrestling,” Division I coach and former collegiate wrestler Kyle Borshoff says. “It helps you cover the distance between you and your opponent.”

HOW TO

You’ll start by getting into a good stance. Your stance can be the foundation for success on the mat. You’ll also need to be comfortable moving in your stance to generate offense.

Once you’re in your stance, you’ll be ready to execute a penetration step. To perform the move:

• Step forward with your front foot.
• Drop your front knee over your toe.
• Swing your trail leg up to move back into your stance position.

By working on your penetration step, you’ll be ready to set up your attack as you grapple your way to victory.

“Having a great penetration step can help you to score many points against your opponent,” Borshoff says.

Outside of your offense, you’ll also want to concentrate on your defensive prowess. The down block is a technique that can help you guard against leg attacks. The sprawl is another defensive move that can deny an opponent’s lower-body attack.