Wrestling
Underhooks, overhooks and the whizzer
An underhook goes beneath the other fighter's arm to control the upper body. An overhook wraps across that arm from above. A whizzer usually means an active, weight-bearing overhook used to counter an underhook or leg attack.
The diagrams explain positions and decisions. Independent coach review is pending. Practise contact entries and finishes on mats with a qualified coach.
On this page
Illustrated checkpoints
- Inside arm. Your upper arm passes under the partner's arm.
- Outside arm. Your upper arm wraps from above.
- Active overhook. A whizzer combines the outside tie with stance and hip position; stop before twisting the shoulder.
Find inside position
Stand with one underhook each in an agreed over-under tie. Notice where your elbow sits relative to your partner's ribs and where their elbow sits relative to yours. The underhook gives a connection you can use to turn with the torso. A loose arm over the top does little if your feet stay behind as the partner changes angle.
Pummel at walking pace
Start chest to chest with room to breathe. One partner makes a small pocket between the elbows and swims an arm inside. The other allows the change, then repeats on the opposite side. Switch who leads. Keep heads offset enough to avoid clashing and shoulders within a comfortable range.
Use the whizzer in context
A coach may teach an overhook response when a partner gets deep on one side for a single. Foot position and hip pressure supply part of that defense. Trying to crank the arm with both feet planted loads the shoulder and may still lose the position. Begin with a static tie. Stop on any sign of discomfort.