Basic wrestling

Question
Hello I was wondering if you had any advise on what the most effective basic wrestling moves that I can teach my wrestlers. I have 58 kids in my first class ages between 4-7. It's hard to keep their attention as it is, lol, but i was wondering if you had any advise on what I could teach them to make them more affective in the next month before their first matches. Thanks for your time.

Answer
Hey Danny,

Thanks for the question. I applaud your courage as a coach for taking on this age group assignment! Being that you are aware of the attention span issues, I would start first with basic stance development, double leg tackles, single legs, and finally, bear-hugs, and head & arm headlocks. From the bottom, show basic stand-ups, wing rolls, and a power switch. From the top position, I would show a near-side cradle, a 3/4 nelson, and an inside-wrist(nearside) to a half nelson (opposite side). I would also stress holding position when guarding your stance in neutral position, and controlling the head on an opponent's shot to a basic spin behind takedown ( snap-down). Teach your young group to be aware of what their feet are doing at all times. For physical development , have them hang from a pull-up bar for 15 seconds at a time ( 4 sets ) every other day - this is like playing on monkey bars for them, but ultimately , it will elongate their developing muscles, and strengthen joints, while developing strength and mental toughness. Hopefully, this will get you started. For energy and training meals for match and tournaments, check out my websites : http://opp.sunrider.com/healthessentials ( Vita-Shakes) and http://rmcdonald7.qhealthzone.com for 'Perfect Water' and EXS energy drinks. Good luck and keep me posted on your successes!

Your in the Quest for Gold,

Coach Rae-Rae