Can I? Yes, No, Stop: Safety Codes in Wrestling

A session to create and practice the consent and stop codes used in every wrestling game: asking permission, saying no, and tapping out with two taps. It works on respect, listening and an instant response to a partner's signal.

How to play

1. In groups, students suggest rules for wrestling safely and share them: what you ask, what you never do and how you stop (4 min).
2. Signal practice: two taps on the mat or the partner, saying "stop," and raising a hand; everyone does each one several times (4 min).
3. 15-second kneeling push mini-duels: at any moment, whoever is losing uses a signal and the partner must let go instantly; the teacher watches reactions (6 min).
4. Cases to discuss in pairs: "they say yes but look like they're in pain," "we're friends and we're laughing," "I don't want to wrestle that person" (4 min).
5. Write the mat pact on poster board and everyone signs it (2 min).

Rules

• Before every duel, ask "Ready to start?" and wait for a yes.
• Every stop signal is always respected, even if it seems like a joke.
• Saying no to a contact game has no negative consequences.
• No one laughs at someone who taps out.

Variations

Adaptations

• Deaf or hard-of-hearing students: the valid signal is the double tap or raised hand, never voice alone.
• Nonverbal students or students with communication difficulties: agree on their own stop gesture with their partner before starting.
• Students who don't want contact: join the signals, cases and pact, and observe the duels.

Learning goals

• Create shared rules for contact.
• React instantly to a stop signal.
• Value consent in physical activity.

Equipment for a class of 25

• mats: 15
• poster boards: 2
• markers: 6

Teacher tip

Leave the poster up in the gym for the whole unit and point to it when needed. The usual mistake is holding on "because I was about to win": stop that duel and restate the rule to everyone, calmly.

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