Wrestling
Get Involved in Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling
Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling is a unique traditional back-hold wrestling style, rooted in the rich sporting heritage of Northern England and the wider Celtic nations. Wrestlers begin by locking hands behind each other's backs before using skill, balance, timing and technique to throw their opponent.
Open to all ages and abilities, with opportunities for both men and women to compete, wrestling is a fantastic way to improve fitness, build confidence, make friends and have fun.
Each summer, wrestlers take part in more than 50 sports events across the region. Throughout the winter, regular training takes place at academies in Carlisle, Kendal, Waberthwaite and Rothbury, alongside weekly sessions in Egremont through the CWWA Development Project.
The Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling Association also has strong international links through the International Federation of Celtic Wrestlers, giving members opportunities to travel abroad for training camps and competitions. Looking ahead, Cumbria is hoping to host the Senior European Celtic Wrestling Championships in the Spring of 2027.
Whether you're looking to compete, get fit, learn a traditional sport or become part of a welcoming community, there's never been a better time to get involved.
Why is it good for me?
Improves physical fitness, agility and speed. It’s fun and great for emotional health and wellbeing. Sociable with a real community spirit.
How much does it cost?
Open to all, The Cumberland and Westmorland Association is a ‘not for profit’ organisation and we only request small donations at academy training sessions to cover costs. All you need to do is to turn up with a basic PE kit, shorts and T-shirt. Once you start to attend regularly, if you want to, you can purchase modern club shorts and T-shirts, which are sold at cost.
Getting started
From September to April you can go along to any of our training academies in Carlisle, Rothbury, Waberthwaite, Kendal or Egremont who meet regularly.
Details are available on our website: Clubs - Cumberland and Westmorland Wrestling Association Limited or follow us on Facebook.
During the summer there are opportunities to take part in over 50 sporting events around the North of England, including Cumberland; Penrith; Roman Wall; Northumbria & Dalston shows as well as Ambleside and Grasmere Sports and Egremont Crab Fair. Go along to any of these events, watch the wrestling and talk to our wrestlers and officials around the wrestling ring, we will be happy to tell you more about this fantastic sport and how to get involved.