Par terre is a ground position used in Greco-Roman wrestling (and historically more often in freestyle) where one wrestler starts on hands and knees and the other on top. Under current UWW rules, it is most often used in Greco-Roman after a passivity call, giving the active wrestler a point and the choice to start on top.
Par terre basics
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| When used | Mainly after passivity in Greco-Roman |
| Bottom position | Hands and knees in the centre of the mat |
| Top position | Kneeling or standing, hands on the opponent’s back until the whistle |
| Scoring | Turns, lifts and exposures score |
| Defence | Stay flat and wide, keep hips down |
Top wrestler options
- Gut wrench to turn the opponent.
- Reverse lift for a big throw.
- Arm-throw and headlock combinations (style-dependent).
- Keep chest pressure between attacks.
- Aim to score before the referee stands you up.
Rules reference: NFHS Wrestling Rules Book (US high school), NCAA Wrestling Rules (US college) and United World Wrestling rules (freestyle and Greco-Roman). Scoring values differ between these codes.
Frequently asked questions
Is par terre used in freestyle?
It is rare in modern freestyle; freestyle uses a passivity clock and point instead in most cases.
What is a gut wrench?
A turn where the top wrestler locks around the waist and rolls the opponent across their back.
How long does par terre last?
Until the referee restarts in standing after lack of action or a score.
