How to Thumb Wrestle

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Last Updated: June 13, 2024

Thumb wrestling is an intense (and fun) way to flex your hand-eye coordination skills while passing the time. If you’re curious about the rules of this ancient form of combat, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll cover everything you know about winning a thumb war.

1

Prepare the wrestling position.

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Both players should place their thumbs in mid-air so that they’re facing one another. With the right hand fingertips, grab your opponent's right hand fingertips and clasp tight together.

2

Point your thumbs at one another.

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Some players like to stick their thumb pads against one another. Start each game politely by showing respect for your opponent with this pre-combat ceremony. Yes, it's silly but it reflects the amusing nature of this bloodsport.
- The bows traditionally follow the cadence of the verse "One, two, three, four / I declare a thumb war!" and occasionally "Five, six, seven, eight / Try to keep your thumb straight!"

3

Start grappling.

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Try to pin your opponent’s thumb down while keeping yours up. Try to catch one another's thumbs. It sounds easier than it is! Once the wriggling and giggling commences, the game is up for anyone!
- It helps if you lie your thumb down and then go around you opponents thumb when they swoop down to press down
- Use your thumb to your advantage

4

Play until there’s a winner.

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The only way to win in this game is to pin down the opponent's thumb for a set count. A count of 4, at the same pace as counting seconds, is ideal. Any less is usually too easy. Another option is to follow the cadence of the verse "One, two, three, four / I win the thumb war!"

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How do I win a thumb wrestling match?

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Grabbing near the base of your opponent's thumb will make it much more difficult for them to get free.

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Tips

It is also a great game to test out on weary parents; since it makes no mess and takes little time, they will probably be most enthusiastic about joining in.

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This is a good game for long car trips, for visits to places where children complain that there "isn't anything to do".

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Try some strategies to win. Distract your opponent as much as possible. Or bait your opponent by leaving your thumb down, maybe off to the side. Then, when he or she tries to catch you, catch first, and stronger.

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