Alysh (Kyrgyz wrestling)

Alysh is the national belt wrestling of the Kyrgyz people, with a fixed grip on the belt. Both men and women compete. Alysh is divided into a freestyle form, in which leg techniques are allowed, and a classical form, in which they are forbidden.

The history of alysh belt wrestling goes back to the distant past; it is one of the ancient sporting games of the Kyrgyz. Wrestlers wear special blue and green shirts, white trousers and a red belt.

In the starting position each wrestler's head rests on the opponent's shoulder, so that he can watch the opponent's legs from under his arms. Bending forward at the waist, the wrestlers grip the opponent's belt, passing the left hand over the right. The bout takes place only in the standing position.

Each wrestler tries to put the opponent on his shoulder blades without letting go of the belt.