Professional Wrestlers: Athletes of the Entertainment World
While we talk a lot about Soccer here on the BLOG, and one could say this is a soccer BLOG, one of my favorite things to watch with my kids is Professional Wrestling. We almost religiously watch Monday Night Raw. (It was one of the things I did with my dad growing up as well) We also catch other shows on different nights of the week when we can. NXT on Tuesdays, AEW on Wednesdays, WWE Smackdown on Fridays and we also watch the Premium Live Events/PPVs when we can swing it. I’m going to take a journey outside of the soccer world for a minute to talk about Pro Wrestlers as athletes. This post is going live on Monday because Monday Night Raw is such a staple in our household.
Professional wrestling, often dismissed as scripted entertainment, is an industry that demands an incredible level of athleticism, dedication, and skill from its performers. While the outcomes may be predetermined, the physical demands and risks associated with this form of entertainment are very much real. Professional wrestlers are indeed athletes, and their performances require a unique combination of strength, agility, endurance, and showmanship.
The Athleticism of Professional Wrestling
At first glance, it's easy to underestimate the athleticism required in professional wrestling. The choreographed matches and scripted storylines can create an illusion that the performers are simply actors following a script. However, the truth is that these athletes undergo intense training, maintain strict diets, and dedicate themselves to rigorous exercise routines to prepare for their performances in the ring.
Strength and Power
One of the most obvious aspects of a professional wrestler's athleticism is their strength and power. Wrestlers need to lift and maneuver opponents who may weigh anywhere from a few dozen to several hundred pounds. This requires not only raw strength but also well-honed technique and body control to execute moves safely and effectively.
Agility and Flexibility
Wrestlers showcase impressive agility and flexibility during their matches. From acrobatic maneuvers to flips, dives, and high-flying attacks, these athletes must possess a high degree of flexibility and agility to execute their moves accurately and minimize the risk of injury.
Endurance and Cardiovascular Fitness
Wrestling matches can be grueling, often lasting for extended periods. Performers need exceptional cardiovascular endurance to keep up the pace and deliver high-energy performances throughout the match. This endurance is crucial for executing complex moves and sequences without compromising safety.
The Rigors of Training and Preparation
Preparation for a professional wrestling career involves intense training and conditioning. Wrestlers undergo extensive training in various disciplines, including grappling, striking, and aerial maneuvers. They also work on improving their flexibility, balance, and agility to enhance their in-ring performance.
Wrestling Schools and Trainers
Aspiring wrestlers attend wrestling schools where they receive rigorous training under experienced trainers and former wrestlers. They learn the fundamentals of wrestling, from basic moves to advanced techniques, along with the importance of safety and proper form.
Physical Fitness Regimen
Professional wrestlers maintain strict fitness regimens to stay in optimal shape. This includes weightlifting, cardiovascular exercises, agility drills, and functional training. Nutrition also plays a vital role, with wrestlers following carefully designed diets to meet their energy and muscle-building needs.
Injury Prevention and Recovery
Given the physicality of professional wrestling, injury prevention and recovery are paramount. Wrestlers focus on injury prevention exercises, stretching, and conditioning to minimize the risk of injuries. When injuries do occur, wrestlers undergo rehabilitation to ensure a safe return to the ring.
The Mental and Emotional Aspects of Wrestling
Apart from the physical demands, the mental and emotional aspects of professional wrestling are equally important. Wrestlers need to remain focused, composed, and dedicated to their craft, often dealing with the pressure of entertaining an audience while keeping their safety in mind.
Character Development and Storytelling
Wrestlers often invest significant time and effort in developing their characters and storylines. They must portray their characters convincingly, engage the audience, and contribute to the overall entertainment value of the show.
Adaptability and Creativity
In the fast-paced world of professional wrestling, being adaptable and creative is essential. Performers need to think on their feet, adjust their performances based on the crowd's reaction, and collaborate effectively with their opponents to create an exciting and engaging match.
Conclusion
If you’ve made it this far, I want you to head over to your Netflix account and watch the Documentary Series called “Wrestlers”. It will give you a new appreciation for the profession that is PRO ‘RASSLER. Their bodies take a tremendous beating and at times, I believe we forget that they are human beings and incredible athletes.
Professional wrestlers are undoubtedly athletes who display a remarkable blend of strength, agility, endurance, and showmanship. They dedicate themselves to rigorous training and preparation, demonstrating their commitment to delivering entertaining performances while prioritizing safety. Recognizing the athleticism and dedication of professional wrestlers is essential for appreciating the hard work and effort that goes into this unique form of entertainment.
