Bökh

Bökh is a folk wrestling style originating from Central Asia, specifically from the region that covers modern-day Mongolia and parts of Siberia. The name "Bökh" comes from the Mongolian word for "wrestling."

The history of Bökh dates back to the 13th century, during the time of Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire. It was a popular form of physical competition and entertainment among the nomadic tribes. Bökh is characterized by its emphasis on skill, strength, and strategy over brute force, as well as its focus on developing the wrestler's agility, endurance, and mental toughness.

In Bökh, two wrestlers engage in a circular motion, trying to throw or take down their opponent. The match can end in a variety of ways, including a successful throw, a pin, or an inconclusive stalemate. Bökh wrestlers often use footwork, leverage, and body positioning to gain an advantage over their opponent.

Bökh has been influenced by various cultural and martial arts traditions, including Mongolian khöömei (throat singing) and Kyrgyzstani kurash. The sport has also been shaped by the country's geography and climate, requiring its participants to be adaptable and resilient in the face of extreme temperatures,Altai Mountains, and sparse resources.

Today, Bökh is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and continues to be an important part of Mongolian and Sibir cultural identity, as well as a popular sport among Inner Asian communities. Bökh is often practiced during cultural festivals and competitions, serving as a means of preserving traditional skills and values.