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“There are things that are different just because of modern times and technology,” wrestling legend Dan Gable said of the advancements that have impacted the ease of scouting, the science of nutrition and dealing with injuries. “But we haven’t been able to figure out how to work any less hard, physically.”

Gable smiles at this, because it’s the one thing that never has and never will change about wrestling.

“We have to wrestle almost every day. We have to go live more than most sports,” he said. “One of the reasons is that it’s the only way you can build that kind of conditioning. But also because you really don’t learn positions, in reality, except through live skill work. And we’re a little old-fashioned, too.”

This is the heart of why wrestling is so popular in Iowa.

“Gable always talked about the rural work ethic, where people roll up their sleeves and get the chores done,” said Iowa coach Tom Brands, who wrestled as a Hawkeye for Gable. “Doesn’t matter if it’s 105 degrees outside or if 20 below zero and the wind’s blowing.”