maadluse

Maadluse is the Estonian term for wrestling, a combat sport in which two competitors seek to gain control over each other through grappling on a mat. Outcomes are determined by points earned for throws, holds, exposure, or by pinning the opponent to the mat. Matches follow standardized rules that emphasize safety and technique.

The two main Olympic styles are Greco-Roman and freestyle. In Greco-Roman wrestling, attacks below the waist are prohibited, restricting offense to the upper body. In freestyle, competitors may use the legs for offense and defense. Women's wrestling is typically conducted in the freestyle discipline. Other regional or traditional forms exist in various countries, but international competition is organized under United World Wrestling.

Wrestling has ancient origins and is among the world’s oldest sports. In the modern era it has featured in the Olympic Games since the early editions (Greco-Roman since 1896, freestyle since 1904) and is contested at the World Championships and continental championships. The sport is governed worldwide by United World Wrestling (UWW), with national federations administering domestic events.

In Estonia, maadluse is practiced across clubs and schools and is overseen by Eesti Maadlusliit. The federation supports youth development, local competitions, and national championships, feeding into the broader European and world circuits. The sport emphasizes technique, conditioning, and safety, and aims to develop athletes from amateur participation to international competition.