I started when I was 4, and we went wrestling every weekend once I began. I can tell you, I got burned out and took a year off when I was 10. After the year off, we went wrestling every weekend we could, again. By the time I was a senior in high school, I was ready to be done. With my own kids, I started them when they were 5. The big difference with them is we go to 2 practices a week, and only 3 tournaments a year. We are usually done mid February. I have done this with both of my boys. My older son is now 8, and is really starting to understand the sport. He will do 3 nights of practice, including Purler on Tuesday nights here in Emporia. He will probably go to more tournaments this year, but we will limit him to probably 2 a month. My younger son will still only do 2 practices a week and 2 to 3 tournaments this year unless he really want to wrestle more. My younger son will not participate in subs, I want him to have one more year experience. I think this helps my boys stay interested in the sport, and not burn them out. This is just a personal choice for my family, and has worked out so far.