What are the Rules of Arm Wrestling?

What are the Rules of Arm Wrestling?
Arm wrestling is a popular sport that requires strength, technique, and strategy. The objective of the game is to pin down the opponent’s arm onto a surface, usually a table. However, there are specific rules that must be followed to ensure a fair and safe competition. In this article, we will discuss the rules of arm wrestling.

Equipment
To play arm wrestling, you first need a sturdy table, preferably with a non-slip surface. The height of the table should be between 28 and 30 inches, and the width and length should be at least 36 inches. The table should be firm and stable so that it can withstand the pressure exerted by the players.

The second essential equipment is the arm wrestling pad. The pad is a cushioned surface that is placed on the table to protect the players’ elbows during the game. The pad should be at least 15 inches wide and 8 inches deep, with a thickness of 2 inches.

Finally, the players need a referee to monitor the game and ensure that the rules are being followed.

Rules
Hand Placement: Before the game starts, the players must grip each other’s hand firmly, with the thumb wrapped around the opponent’s fingers. The players’ elbows should be on the pad, and their shoulders should be square to the table.

Starting Position: The referee will announce the starting position, which is usually “Ready, Go!” The players must start with their hands in the center of the table, and their wrists must be straight.

Fouls: The players are not allowed to touch their opponent’s hand or arm with their non-wrestling hand. They cannot move their elbow off the pad or their shoulder out of the square position. These actions are called fouls, and if a player commits a foul, they lose the match.

Winning: The game is won when one player pins down the other player’s arm onto the pad. A pin is declared when the back of the opponent’s hand touches the pad, and their wrist is bent towards their body. The player who pins down their opponent’s arm wins the match.

Rematch: If the players’ arms slip out of their grip or if the match ends in a tie, the referee will declare a rematch. The players must return to their starting position and grip each other’s hand again.

Weight Classes: To ensure fair competition, arm wrestling is divided into weight classes. The players are matched based on their weight, and each weight class has its own set of rules.

Tournaments: Arm wrestling tournaments are held at the local, national, and international levels. The rules for each tournament may vary slightly, but they usually follow the standard rules of arm wrestling.

Conclusion
Arm wrestling is a fun and exciting sport that requires skill, strength, and strategy. However, it is essential to follow the rules to ensure fair competition and avoid injuries. The equipment, hand placement, starting position, fouls, winning, rematch, weight classes, and tournaments are all important aspects of the game. By following these rules, players can enjoy a challenging and rewarding arm wrestling experience.