In 12th-13th century, military festivals were widespread, at which men tried their strength and their steeds' agility. From the 17th century onwards, Naadam contests were held regularly during religious holidays. Since 1922, they have been held on the anniversary of the people's revolution. Wrestling is the most national and popular of all Mongol sports. It is the highlight of the Three Games of Men.
Historians claim that Mongol-style wrestling originated some seven thousand years ago.
The technique and ritual of Mongolian wrestling is distinctly national. There are no weight categories or age limits in Mongolian national wrestling. The wrestlers wear heavy boots, a very small tight-fitting loincloth, a pair of sleeves which meet across the back of the shoulders, resembling a tiny vestige of a jacket, and a pointed cap of velvet. The contestants come out on the field leaping and dancing, flapping their arms in imitation of an eagle. Each wrestler has his attendant herald.