I did it for 4 years and let me tell you, it was the most greuling training I'd ever done.
Similar to Jiu Jitsu, all we did for the first couple of months was learn how to roll and fall. Then we were "stretched" by the veterans, meaning we were twisted into pretzels for a couple of more months. A typical training session lasts about 4 hours. And we trained 3 to 4 days a week.
Eventually, we started to learn how to run the ropes and lock up. Then we were taught some stand-up chain wrestling (headlock, reversal, waist lock, wrist lock, reversals, etc.). Then you take it to the ground where you live for the next few months.
After a while, once the boys felt they could trust you, you were allowed to try to execute moves on them. But this usually didn't happen for at least a year. After all, you don't want any jabroni who walks in the door trying to execute a piledriver on you if you're not sure he knows what he's doing.
My trainer, The Unpredictable Johnny Rodz, was from the old school, where you learned how to wrestle the right way before they taught you how to work (do the TV stuff). The training was greuling and I was in the best shape of my life. I reached a point where I could get in that ring and go full tilt for 4 straight hours without blowing up (getting winded).
I enjoyed it very much, but after a while realized that I wasn't willing to make the sacrifices neccessary to make it to the big time. I was getting older, had a career and a family, and really wanted to focus my energy on building up my martial arts career, the website, articles, DVDs, teaching, etc.
I firmly believe that my pro wrestling training made me a better martial artist and is the reason I was able to complete my certification and become a Senior Instructor in my system.
Vic
www.combatartsusa.com