Differences between male and female elite free-style wrestlers in the effects of “set up” on leg attack

Background and Study Aim: Material and Methods: Results: Conclusions: Leg attack is the most basic skill in free-style wrestling. Before executing a leg attack, balance and anticipation of the opponent must be disrupted. We defined this action as the “set up”. The aim of this study is knowledge about the effects of “set up” on the success rate of leg attacks, and answer to question: whether or not a gender difference exists in the use and effectiveness of “set ups” in the elite level of the wrestling matches. We analyzed video recordings of 57 matches of male free-style wrestling seniors, 58 matches of female seniors, 60 matches of male cadets, and 59 matches of female cadets all in international competitions (not necessarily the same). Analyzed were: (1) the use of “set ups” before a leg attack; (2) the result (success or failure) of the leg attack; (3) the points given to the attacker in relation to the leg attack. To examine the associations between “set up” and success/points, we performed a chi-square test. In male free-style wrestler seniors there was a statistically significant association between the presence of a “set up” and success of the leg attack, as well as between the presence of a set up and the points received for the leg attack. However, in female seniors, and male and female cadets there was no significant relationship for either of the above associations. In men’s freestyle wrestling, the “set up” before a leg attack improves the success rate of the leg attack and also increases the points awarded to the attacker. However, senior women and the cadet generation of both males and females did not exhibit either of these relationships.