Wrestling, like all other sports, obeys Rules that constitute the "Rules of the Game" and define its practice, the aim of which is to "pin" the opponent or to win on points.

Greco-Roman and Freestyle wrestling basically differ as follows:
- In Greco-Roman Wrestling, it is strictly forbidden to grasp the opponent below the belt line, or to trip him or to use the legs actively on his opponent to perform any action.
- In Freestyle Wrestling and in Women's Wrestling, however, it is permissible to grasp the legs of the opponent, to trip him/her and to use the legs actively to perform any action. Women's Wrestling follows the rules of Freestyle Wrestling, forbidding however the Double Nelsons.
- Beach Wrestling, Pankration, Belt Wrestling, Grappling and Traditional Wrestling are subject to specific regulations.

Frequently modified and always subject to further modification, the Rules set forth herein must be known and accepted by all wrestlers, coaches, referees and leaders. They call upon those who practise the sport to fight totally and universally, with complete honesty and fair play for the pleasure of the spectators.