What action constitutes 'fleeing the mat'?

Fleeing the mat is defined as an action where a wrestler deliberately goes out of bounds to avoid being taken down or to prevent a fall. This behavior is considered unsportsmanlike because it disrupts the flow of the match and gives one wrestler an unfair advantage by avoiding competition and engagement, which is fundamental to wrestling. The aim of wrestling is to wrestle and compete, and stepping out of bounds intentionally to escape a situation undermines that principle.

The other actions listed do not fall under the definition of fleeing the mat in the same way. Taking a strategic break can be a tactical decision within the rules of wrestling, often used to regroup or reassess. Requesting an equipment check is a part of the official process and is typically done for safety or compliance with regulations, rather than as a means to evade action. Deliberately avoiding contact might indicate a defensive strategy, but it does not specifically relate to the action of leaving the mat area intentionally. Thus, only the action of going out of bounds to prevent a fall aligns with the definition of fleeing the mat.