Commonly referred to as “Ancient Greek Wrestling” is a Southeast European combat form known as Pale. This “grappling” martial art form is said to have originated from ancient Greece. Furthermore, it is also known as “Roman wrestling”. Apparently, this form of combat is considered to be ideal for expressing strength. Furthermore, this style of fighting was first included as a sport in the Olympics in 708 BC, and was also a part of the Pentathlon event.

a. History/origin of the Pale:

According to the cultural history of Greece, this combat form Pale was created as a way to express “strength”. Furthermore, this form of combat is divided into two types namely orthe pale i.e. upright wrestling and kato pale i.e. ground wrestling. It was officially first included in the 18^th edition of the Olympics that was organized in the year 708 BC. However, it was abolished in the year 394 AD during the reign of Emperor Theodosius.

b. Weapon used in the Pale:

Since “grappling” technique is mainly used it is the “hands” of the fighter that is mainly used as a weapon.

c. Technique involved in the Pale and training availability:

In terms of technique, a fighter basically attempts to push the opponent on the ground and score a point. Furthermore, it is only when the back, hip, or shoulder of the fighter is in contact to the ground that a point is scored. In addition, the arena on which a duel of Pale is fought is known as “skamma” i.e. wrestling pit. As for training centers/schools, there are a few available in Greece for those interested in learning this “grappling” martial art form.

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