The Nigerian Wrestling Federation (NWF) has commenced training in sports and exercise physiology for wrestlers preparing for the 2026 Senior World Wrestling Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan. This was revealed in a statement by Promise Okotoko, NWF Media Assistant, in Abuja on Friday, September 25.
The training, held at the team’s camp in Yenagoa, was facilitated by Dr Okou, a sports and exercise physiologist and member of the NWF Board. He identified mental toughness, team cohesion and behavioural regulation as key factors in managing stress and sustaining performance among elite wrestlers.
Okou said physical and technical preparation must be complemented by psychological readiness, particularly as athletes face fatigue, pressure and high expectations. He urged the wrestlers to remain mentally composed and focused during crucial moments of competition.
He also stressed the importance of teamwork, noting that although wrestling is an individual sport during competition, athletes depend on their teammates and coaching crew throughout training and preparation. He said strong team cohesion could help athletes cope better with pressure and improve their performance.
The NWF Board member also provided incentives to support some of the wrestlers’ basic training needs as preparations intensify. The championships are scheduled for Oct. 24 to Nov. 1 at Barys Arena in Astana, with Nigerian wrestlers currently training in camps in Nigeria and the United States.
Leave a comment