Khridoli

Wrestling

Georgian wrestling rules are distinctive and sophisticated, and it is considered one of the most beautiful types of wrestling. Contests take place only when both competitors are standing. It is forbidden to compete in a squat position, as well as to hold the lower limbs of the opponent, or to use painful techniques such as “choking.”

Rkena

Rkena (Khevsurian wrestling) is quite different from traditional Georgian wrestling with its own peculiar rules. Any tricks or moves are allowed. According to the traditions preserved in Khevsureti, you are allowed to put your hand around the "mukasari" (trouser legs).

Fencing

In Khevsurian fencing, opponents fight using a sword and a small circular shield. During sports competitions, khridoli fighters use a wooden shield and sword. It is forbidden to swing the sword at the opponent from the side, a rule which comes from an old Georgian custom, according to which unless you are fighting a sworn enemy, you should twist the sword from the wrist and inflict only a light wound.

Archery

Georgian archery uses specially-made wooden bows. It is also permissible to use a bow made of an animal’s horn. Competing with modern sports bows is prohibited. The size of the bow is not specified, and depends on the participants’ preference.

Boxing

In Georgian boxing, fights take place using the khridoli choke technique. In ancient times, Georgians fought with their bare hands, but now they fight with special gloves. It is permitted to use common wrestling techniques, to strike with a fist, foot, head, knee, or elbow on almost all parts of the body. Elbowing, kneeing, and hitting the head or the face are however prohibited during competitions.

Khridoli Combat Chokha

Khridoli competition clothes include traditional Georgian wrestling robes, used in the country up until the 1930s. The fighting style changed at that point, due to which some techniques were outlawed and the wrestling took a different turn. Use of the combat chokha robe was restored in 1997 however, during the establishment of the khridoli combat system. Today, it is the official uniform of all five fighting styles that make up khridoli.