
In the world of strength sports, where athletes fling kegs, flip tires, and heave Atlas Stones, one sport stands out for its primal intensity and competitive spirit: MAS Wrestling. Short of a physical confrontation, MAS Wrestling offers one of the most direct tests of functional strength and technique. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s time to delve into this fascinating and growing sport.
Origin and History
MAS Wrestling hails from the frosty Sakha Republic in northeastern Russia, also known as Yakutia. This region, despite being as vast as the United States, has fewer than a million inhabitants, yet MAS Wrestling is their national sport. It is believed to have originated from the Vikings and has historical variations in Northern Europe, including Alaska. In Scotland, it appears in some highland games under the name “Maide Leisg,” Scots-Gaelic for “lazy stick.”
Odd Haugen, the president of Mas Wrestling USA, has traced the sport’s roots back to the 19th century in northern Europe. Despite having a rich tradition of strength sports in Norway, Haugen was unaware of MAS Wrestling, prompting him to establish Mas Wrestling USA with the ultimate goal of Olympic recognition.
Today, MAS Wrestling has grown globally, with hundreds of competitors participating in various competitions in the United States. An international championship held in Kyrgyzstan recently featured 192 athletes from 42 countries, competing across multiple weight categories.
Rules of MAS Wrestling
MAS Wrestling is a simple yet captivating sport. Two athletes face each other, sitting heel to heel, with their feet propped against a wooden board. Their objective: to pull a stick, about twenty inches long and one and a quarter inches in diameter, made from birch or oak, away from their opponent. Matches are typically best two out of three rounds, lasting around 30 seconds but limited to two minutes. Athletes choose between two grips: an inside grip for a direct pull or an outside grip for better leverage. Twisting the stick more than ninety degrees is not allowed.
The Essence of MAS Wrestling
While MAS Wrestling may resemble a seated deadlift, it’s not just about raw strength. According to seasoned athlete Odd Haugen, who has a deadlift of 750 pounds, beating someone who lifts 900 pounds is entirely feasible. MAS Wrestling prioritizes leverage, speed, and agility. Quick starts and adept footwork can tip the scales in favor of a lighter athlete against a heavier opponent. The ability to react and move effectively in response to an opponent’s actions is a crucial aspect of the sport.
Training for MAS Wrestling
Preparing for MAS Wrestling involves a combination of strength, agility, and technique. Athletes work on their grip strength, core stability, and lower body explosiveness. Dynamic movements, such as box jumps, speed ladders, and agility drills, are integrated into training regimens. Odd Haugen emphasizes that MAS Wrestling complements strongman training, particularly benefiting the deadlift and Atlas Stones, while offering unique advantages for back health due to its distinct pulling motion.
Promotion and Future of MAS Wrestling
Odd Haugen’s ambition extends beyond promoting MAS Wrestling in the United States; he aims to see it recognized as an Olympic sport. Currently affiliated with the International Sambo Federation and the World Ethnosport Confederation, MAS Wrestling continues to grow worldwide. It’s not just a sport for strongmen; it’s a test of skill, speed, and strength that appeals to a wide range of athletes.
Conclusion
MAS Wrestling may look deceptively simple, but it offers a profound challenge of physical prowess and technique. Its unique blend of strength, agility, and strategy has captivated athletes around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or someone seeking a new and exciting fitness challenge, MAS Wrestling is a sport worth exploring. With ongoing efforts to introduce it to CrossFit centers and strongman competitions, MAS Wrestling’s remarkable rise is far from over.
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