How To: Become a pro wrestler

It takes more than a kicky costume to become a professional wrestler. Start young to build up your basic wrestling skills and athleticism. To turn pro you're going to need some acting flare, love for performing and a little luck.

Have you ever had the urge to body-slam someone? You've got two options – either face assault charges or become a pro wrestler.

You Will Need

* Amateur wrestling skills
* A training school
* Acting talent
* Endurance
* Commitment
* Humility (optional)

Pro wrestling is dangerous. Always consult a physician before attempting to do any exercise or exercise plan.

Step 1: Start young

Start young by enrolling in pee-wee or amateur wrestling as a child and staying involved through high school and college.

Professional wrestling and amateur wrestling are different, but having amateur wrestling skills will help you get a foot in the door with the professional promotions.

Step 2: Stay in shape

Stay in shape. Professional wrestling, while entertaining, requires hard work and is physically taxing. Some of the larger promoters work their wrestlers 6 to 7 days a week.

Step 3: Go to school

Go to wrestling school. Many states have training schools that will turn your amateur wrestling skills into professional wrestling moves.

Step 4: Understand the business

Understand the pro wrestling business. You are not just an athlete, but also an actor and entertainer, so getting the fans to love you or hate you is just as important as executing the perfect pile-driver.

Step 5: Pay your dues

Pay your dues in the minor leagues by first wrestling in local or regional promotions instead of the big national players like WWE or TNA. If you do well, the big dogs will notice.

Don't be too proud or arrogant to wrestle for free. Prove yourself and work out the kinks from your in-ring skills.

Step 6: Prepare for injury

Prepare yourself for injury by taking care of yourself. In pro wrestling, whi