Why Weight Classes Exist
Wrestling uses weight classes to ensure fair competition. Unlike height in basketball, weight is something wrestlers can controlâwhich creates both opportunities and responsibilities.
The Goal
Match wrestlers of similar size so that technique, conditioning, and mental toughnessânot just physical sizeâdetermine the outcome.
High School (NFHS) Weight Classes
The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) sets the standard weight classes for high school wrestling in the United States. Most states follow these exactly, though some have minor variations.
Boys Weight Classes (14 classes)
All weights in pounds (lbs)
Girls Weight Classes (14 classes)
All weights in pounds (lbs)
Note: Girls wrestling weight classes were standardized nationally in 2023. Some states may still use different classes during the transition period.
College (NCAA) Weight Classes
Men's Division I, II, III (10 classes)
Women's College (NCWWC)
Women's college wrestling is growing rapidly. Weight classes vary by sanctioning body, but commonly include:
101, 109, 116, 123, 130, 136, 143, 155, 170, 191 (approximateâvaries by organization)
Youth Wrestling Weight Classes
Youth wrestling weight classes are more numerous and closely spaced to accommodate growing children. They vary by organization and age division.
Common Youth Age Divisions
- ⢠8 & Under (8U)
- ⢠10 & Under (10U)
- ⢠12 & Under (12U)
- ⢠14 & Under (14U)
- ⢠Schoolboy/Schoolgirl (middle school)
- ⢠Cadet (14-15)
- ⢠Junior (16-18)
đĄ Youth Weight Class Tip
Don't stress about weight for young wrestlers! Let them compete at their natural weight. Youth weight classes are designed to group kids togetherâthere's always a class that fits. Cutting weight at young ages is strongly discouraged and can harm development.
International Wrestling (Freestyle & Greco-Roman)
International wrestling uses kilograms and has different weight classes than American folkstyle.
Senior Men's Freestyle/Greco
Senior Women's Freestyle
Choosing the Right Weight Class
Selecting a weight class is a strategic decision. Here are key considerations:
1. Natural Weight vs. Cutting
Can you maintain this weight while eating normally and staying hydrated? If you're constantly starving or dehydrated, you're probably at the wrong weight.
2. Strength at Weight
Are you one of the stronger wrestlers at this weight, or constantly getting muscled around? Sometimes moving up a class gives you an advantage.
3. Team Needs
In dual meets, filling empty weights matters. Sometimes the team needs you at a specific weight classâcoaches will work with you on this.
4. Competition Quality
Some weight classes are more competitive than others. 145 and 160 tend to be "packed" with talent. Lighter and heavier classes sometimes have easier paths.
đ Use the Calculator
Our Weight Class Calculator shows exactly which class you'd wrestle at based on your current weightâplus the classes above and below to help with decision-making.
Try the Calculator âWeight Certification (Alpha Master)
High school wrestlers must undergo weight certification before the season. This establishes a minimum weight they can compete at, preventing dangerous weight cutting.
The Certification Process
- Hydration test - Urine specific gravity must be 1.025 or lower
- Body composition assessment - Skinfold or other measurement
- Minimum weight calculation - Based on 7% body fat for boys, 12% for girls
- Descent plan - If cutting, maximum 1.5% per week allowed
Learn more in our Alpha Weight Certification Guide and use our Hydration & Certification Calculator.