Folkstyle wrestling has three standard positions. Some excel at all of them, some are just great at one or two, but no matter what level – youth, high school, or college – those positions remain.

Neutral

This is the first position where every match begins. Wrestlers put their toe on the designated red or green line and action ensues from there. 

Top

Once a wrestler gains control with a takedown, he or she will be in the top (or offensive) position. From the top position, the wrestler must work to expose their opponent's shoulders to the mat in order to score points or get a pin.

Bottom

This is also known as the defensive position with the objective of escaping the hold of the top wrestler or gaining a reversal to take over the top position.