Schwingen: Switzerland's Alpine Wrestling in Sawdust Pits: Farmers competing at festivals

This book explores Switzerland's traditional alpine wrestling, where farmers and villagers compete in sawdust pits during lively festivals. It examines how this centuries-old sport remains deeply connected to rural life, from the simple sawdust rings to the hearty meals that fuel the wrestlers. The writing highlights the sport's core values of strength, honor, and community while showing how modern practitioners balance tradition with change. Through descriptions of training methods, festival atmospheres, and personal stories, the book captures what makes this physical tradition endure. It covers both men's and women's participation, the unique language of wrestling terms, and how younger generations are keeping the sport alive. The pages convey the smell of fresh sawdust, the sound of alpine horns, and the feel of a well-executed throw, offering readers an authentic look at a living piece of Swiss culture that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.