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Arm Wrestling - Combat Sport
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Arm Wrestling

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description Arm Wrestling Overview

Arm wrestling is a strength sport in which two competitors place an elbow on a table and try to force the opponent's hand onto a designated pad. Matches test hand, wrist, arm, and shoulder strength while requiring control of the competitor's body position. The sport is practiced internationally, with the World Armwrestling Federation serving as a major governing organization.

help Arm Wrestling FAQ

How is an arm-wrestling match won?

A competitor wins a round by forcing the opponent's hand or wrist down to the pin or touch pad. Official rules also require the elbow to stay in contact with the elbow pad during the action. [Armwrestling rules](https://www.armsport.se/wp-content/uploads/dokument/WAF/2022-WAF-Rules.pdf)

Why does arm wrestling use an elbow pad and a hand peg?

The elbow pad defines the legal base for the wrestling arm, while the hand peg gives the other hand a stable point for body positioning and leverage. A regulated table also has separate elbow pads, touch pads, and hand pegs rather than being an ordinary dining table. [WAF rules](https://www.armsport.se/wp-content/uploads/dokument/WAF/2022-WAF-Rules.pdf)

Is arm wrestling only about biceps strength?

No. Hand control, wrist angle, forearm rotation, shoulder alignment, back pressure, and lower-body positioning all affect how force reaches the opponent's hand. The pin still happens at the pad, but the match uses the whole body to create leverage.

What can cause a foul in arm wrestling?

Common rule violations include lifting the elbow off the pad, breaking the grip, or losing the required body position. The exact penalty depends on the ruleset, so a WAF match and a separate professional promotion may not apply every rule identically. [WAF documents](https://www.waf-armwrestling.com/waf/documents/)

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