Glima facts for kids
Glima is an ancient sport from Scandinavia, the land of the Vikings! It's been around for over 1200 years. The word 'Glima' comes from an old Norse language and means 'glimpse' or 'flash'.
Glima is more than just a sport; it was also a complete self-defence system used by Viking warriors. These powerful techniques are still practiced today in Scandinavia, Europe, North America, and South America.
Contents
What is Glima?
Glima is a traditional Scandinavian martial art. It was used by Vikings for both self-defence and as a sport. It's a bit like wrestling, but with its own special rules and moves.
Glima as Self-Defence
As a self-defence system, Glima teaches many different moves. These include throws, punches, kicks, and ways to control an opponent. It's a complete system, much like other martial arts from around the world. For Viking warriors, Glima was a very important skill.
Glima as a Sport
Glima as a sport is often called Viking wrestling. There are several types of Glima wrestling, each with its own rules. The three main types are Lausatök, Brokartök, and Hryggspenna.
Lausatök (Loose-grip)
Lausatök means 'Loose-grip' or 'Free-grip'. This style is very popular in Norway. It's an aggressive form of wrestling. In Lausatök, the goal is to make your opponent fall to the ground while you remain standing.
Hryggspenna (Backhold)
Hryggspenna means 'Backhold'. In this style, wrestlers grab each other around the upper body from behind. If any part of your body touches the ground, except your feet, you lose the match.
Brokartök (Trouser-grip)
Brokartök means 'Trouser-grip'. This is the most common type of Glima in Iceland and Sweden. Wrestlers hold onto each other's trousers near the waist. Sometimes they use a special Glima belt for a better grip. The aim is to trip or throw your opponent to the ground.
History of Glima
When Scandinavia became Christian, some priests tried to stop Glima. They thought it was linked to old pagan beliefs. However, the people of Scandinavia believed Glima was good for their bodies and minds. They kept practicing it.
Brokartök Glima has been the national sport of Iceland for over 100 years. This shows how important and loved this traditional sport is.
- Craig, Steve. Sports and Games of the Ancients, pages 97-99, Greenwood Publishing Group.
Images for kids
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Two glima belts
See also
In Spanish: Glima para niños
