There’s no doubt about it… a wrestler’s core strength MUST be optimal if they are going to wrestle to their potential.

If you want to increase your core strength for wrestling you need to work the abs from a variety of angles. This is accomplished by using the following types of core exercises:

* Crunches and variations
* Planks and variations
* Twisting Crunches and variations
* Posterior Chain work

Using a variety of exercises throughout the year (Offseason, Preseason and Inseason) will help fine-tune the core muscles. Keep in mind that exercises such as the Barbell Squat, Barbell Deadlifts (both narrow stance and sumo stance) and Trap Bar Deadlifts should be the bread and butter of your total program… and will do more for your core than any direct abs exercises alone!

Speaking of having a strong core, check out this video below of my friend Michael Martin. When you see what he does with this Medicine Ball, you’ll have no doubt that his core is strong enough for wrestling. In fact, it’s this kind of strength that helped contribute to his 4 Virginia State Wrestling Titles!

Check it out and give it a try…