Kushti fights are matches of strength and technique, and have a variety of pins, holds and throws. The wrestlers are excellent at using their bodyweight to manipulate and move opponents on the floor and when standing upright. The grappling serves as a great base to train for stand-up clinch fighting and throws.
Indian wrestlers won 12 medals in the IV Asian games in Greco-Roman and Freestyle wrestling. They repeated this performance in the Commonwealth Games as well.
Vyayam or physical exercise is an integral part of Kushti training. Exercises that employ only bodyweight like the Suryanamaskar, Danda, Baski and a few other exercises from Hatha Yoga are employed. The training also uses weights like clubs, maces and a few weights that are worn on the body like the neck brace are also used.
The training is designed to build muscular strength, endurance and flexibility. It improves coordination and strengthens the joints and connective tissues of the body. It also trains the heart and lungs to work under strain, and improves performance in any other type of physical regimen.