Traditional Swiss Alpine Wrestling

Alpine farmers have practiced Schwingen for centuries as a friendly show of strength. Each round is normally about five minutes and takes place in a 30-foot ring called a “Platz” that is covered with wood shavings or sawdust.

Competitors wear special shorts with a slit in the back over belted trousers, the slit allowing the stipulated grip on the belt. The winner is the one who throws his opponent onto his back with both shoulder blades touching the ground, without losing his own grip on the opponent’s belt. If neither wrestler succeeds within the allotted time, the round is considered a draw. Spectators can contrast this approach to wrestling with the Greco-Roman and freestyle variations more familiar in the United States.