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Takedowns

Quick Introduction​

Takedowns are offensive techniques designed to bring your opponent to the ground while you land in a dominant top position. Successful takedowns combine explosive timing, proper mechanics, and strategic grip control to score points and establish immediate control. Whether you prefer wrestling-style leg attacks or judo-style throws, mastering takedowns gives you a powerful offensive weapon from the standing station.

Position Overview​

Station: Standing

Achieved from: Grip fighting control, opponent's stance breaks, created openings through feints

Leads to: Top position in guard, side control, opponent in turtle

Takedown Types (4 Main Variations)​

🎯 Single Leg Takedown (Most Versatile)​

Objective

Control one leg and finish takedown while maintaining balance and base; score 2 points while landing in top position

Main Characteristic

Attacking one leg with both arms; head placement varies by finish; requires explosive level change and penetration

Execution (Step by Step)

  1. Establish grip control (sleeve and collar or 2-on-1)
  2. Create opening with feint or grip break
  3. Drop stance explosively (level change)
  4. Step deep with penetration step (same side as target leg)
  5. Wrap both arms around target leg (high on thigh)
  6. Drive head to opposite side of captured leg
  7. Drive forward and finish with run-the-pipe, dump, or trip
  8. Land in top position (guard, side control, or turtle)

Critical Details

  • Head position determines finish type (inside = trip, outside = run the pipe)
  • Corner them toward trapped leg side
  • Maintain forward pressure throughout
  • Keep your weight forward, not sitting back
  • Finish explosively, don't hold and wait
  • If they hop, stay connected and drive

Tactical Advantage

Highest percentage takedown in BJJ; works against most body types; multiple finish options; relatively safe (hard to counter); scores 2 points; natural for wrestlers

💪 Double Leg Takedown (Maximum Power)​

Objective

Control both legs simultaneously and drive opponent to ground with explosive power

Main Characteristic

Both arms wrap both legs; head positioned on chest or shoulder; powerful forward drive to finish

Execution (Step by Step)

  1. Establish controlling grips
  2. Create opening (opponent's hands high or wide stance)
  3. Explosive level change (drop low)
  4. Deep penetration step between opponent's legs
  5. Wrap both arms around both thighs
  6. Head placement on chest (centerline)
  7. Drive forward and slightly upward
  8. Finish by driving them to back or sweeping legs

Critical Details

  • Must penetrate deep (hips close to opponent)
  • Keep head up (prevents guillotine)
  • Drive at 45-degree angle (up then forward)
  • Hands clasp behind opponent's legs
  • Finish by lifting and driving, not just pushing
  • Chest stays tight to their thighs

Tactical Advantage

Very powerful finish; difficult to defend if properly executed; works well in no-gi; quick scoring opportunity; demonstrates dominance

🔒 Body Lock Takedown (Control-Based)​

Objective

Control opponent's entire torso with body lock and use leverage to take them down

Main Characteristic

Arms locked around opponent's waist/torso; can be over/under or double underhooks; emphasis on control before takedown

Execution (Step by Step)

  1. Establish body lock position (over/under or double underhooks)
  2. Clasp hands together behind opponent's back
  3. Keep chest tight to their chest or side
  4. Create off-balance by pulling or pushing
  5. Step/sweep their legs when off-balance
  6. Option A: Trip from behind for back take
  7. Option B: Mat return from side for side control
  8. Option C: Suplex/throw if strong and experienced

Technical Details

  • Over/under: One arm over shoulder, one under armpit
  • Double underhooks: Both arms under armpits (very strong)
  • Pull opponent tight (remove space)
  • Use hip pressure to off-balance
  • Trip/sweep when weight shifts
  • Can finish standing or sitting

Tactical Advantage

High control before finish; multiple finish options; excellent for no-gi; works well in clinch situations; natural transition to back control

🌀 Sacrifice Throws (Strategic Options)​

Objective

Use your own controlled fall combined with leverage to throw opponent; trade top position for guaranteed ground engagement

Main Characteristic

Deliberately fall or sit while pulling/throwing opponent over you; emphasis on control and safe landing

Execution (Step by Step - Tomoe Nage Example)

  1. Establish strong collar and sleeve grips
  2. Step in close to opponent
  3. Sit down/fall backward in controlled manner
  4. Place foot/shin on opponent's hip or belt
  5. Pull with arms while extending leg
  6. Throw them over your body
  7. Follow through to top position or guard recovery

When to Use

  • Opponent's weight is forward
  • Strong grip control established
  • You're comfortable going to guard if needed
  • Strategic sacrifice in competition
  • Opponent defending all upright takedowns

Tactical Advantage

Unexpected attack angle; uses opponent's forward pressure; can lead to back take; demonstrates technical proficiency; works well with strong grips

Important Observations (General Rules)​

Core Principles​

  1. 🎯 Level change creates success - Explosive drop in stance creates penetration; standing upright limits effectiveness
  2. 💪 Penetration is fundamental - Get hips close to opponent; distance creates failed attempts
  3. ⏱️ Timing beats strength - Attack when opponent shifts weight or adjusts stance; don't muscle through
  4. 🔄 Head placement matters - Head position determines safety and finish type; prevents guillotine exposure
  5. 🎮 Finish selection - Choose based on situation:
    • Single Leg → Most versatile, safest entry
    • Double Leg → Maximum power, requires perfect timing
    • Body Lock → Control-focused, excellent in clinch
    • Sacrifice → Strategic, uses opponent's pressure

Connection to Theories​

Applying core principles:

  • Space Management: Create space with level change; fill space with penetration
  • Weight Distribution: Off-balance opponent before finish; maintain your base throughout
  • Support Maintenance: Constant grip and body connection; never lose control during attempt
  • Structural Relations: Break opponent's posture line; maintain your structural integrity
  • Movement Adaptation: Adjust finish based on opponent's defensive reactions

Common Mistakes​

⚠️ Telegraphing the shot - Obvious level change alerts opponent; makes defense easy

⚠️ Shallow penetration - Staying too far from opponent; easy to sprawl and defend

⚠️ Poor head position - Head too low or too far inside; exposes neck to guillotine

⚠️ Hesitant finish - Holding position without finishing; allows opponent to recover base

⚠️ No grip control first - Attempting takedown without establishing grips; low success rate

⚠️ Standing too tall - Not changing level enough; opponent sees attack coming

⚠️ Losing forward pressure - Sitting back or stopping drive; allows opponent to escape

🥋 Takedown Entries and Setups​

Grip Fighting to Single Leg​

Setup: Controlling sleeve and collar from grip fighting

Entry:

  1. Establish dominant grip control
  2. Create opening with collar snap or push
  3. Drop level as they react to snap
  4. Penetrate to single leg
  5. Finish with chosen method

Key Details: Snap creates forward weight shift; drop as they adjust; grip control crucial

Tactical Use: Most common competition entry; natural from gi grip fighting

Arm Drag to Back Body Lock​

Setup: Sleeve and wrist control in grip fighting

Entry:

  1. Establish sleeve/wrist control
  2. Pull their arm across your body (arm drag)
  3. Immediately circle to their back
  4. Establish body lock from behind
  5. Trip or mat return for takedown

Key Details: Speed is critical after arm drag; don't pause; secure body lock quickly

Tactical Use: High percentage no-gi entry; leads to back control; excellent points opportunity

Snap Down to Front Headlock​

Setup: Collar or head control in standing

Entry:

  1. Grip behind opponent's head/neck
  2. Snap them forward and down
  3. Sprawl your hips back
  4. Establish front headlock control
  5. Option to finish guillotine or take back

Key Details: Snap explosively; sprawl immediately; head control prevents them standing

Tactical Use: Counter to opponent's shot; submission threat; back take opportunity

Double Leg from Collar Tie​

Setup: Collar tie grip (hand behind opponent's head)

Entry:

  1. Establish collar tie position
  2. Pull their head down to break posture
  3. As they resist upward, change level
  4. Penetrate for double leg
  5. Finish explosively

Key Details: Use their upward reaction; level change during resistance; timing essential

Tactical Use: Reaction-based entry; works against defensive opponents; wrestling fundamental

Low Single from Outside​

Setup: Distance management and timing

Entry:

  1. Opponent steps forward with one leg
  2. Drop low and penetrate outside
  3. Grab ankle or lower leg
  4. Drive shoulder into knee
  5. Finish with ankle pick or elevation

Key Details: Must be very low; outside position safer; requires explosive timing

Tactical Use: Counter-wrestling; safe from guillotine; catch stepping movements

🎓 Training Progressions​

Solo Drills​

  1. Level Change and Penetration Steps (20 reps)

    • Practice explosive drop in stance
    • Add penetration step forward
    • Return to standing
    • Build explosive power and muscle memory
    • Foundation for all takedown entries

  2. Shadow Wrestling (5 minutes)

    • Simulate takedown entries without partner
    • Practice level changes, shots, finishes
    • Build cardio and movement patterns
    • Visualize successful executions

  3. Footwork Drills (5 minutes)

    • Circle and move with penetration steps
    • Practice angles for different takedowns
    • Build agility and positioning
    • Develop takedown timing sense

Partner Drills​

Level 1: Static Drilling (Cooperative)

  • Partner stands still
  • Practice perfect takedown mechanics
  • Focus on proper form and positioning
  • 10 reps each takedown
  • No resistance, build technique

Level 2: Motion Drilling (25% Resistance)

  • Partner moves naturally but allows takedown
  • Practice entries from movement
  • Light defensive reactions
  • 3-minute rounds
  • Focus on timing and adjustment

Level 3: Positional Sparring (50% Resistance)

  • Start from grip fighting
  • Work to secure takedown
  • Partner provides realistic defense
  • 3-minute rounds
  • Focus on creating and finishing opportunities

Level 4: Live Takedowns (100% Resistance)

  • Full resistance standing exchanges
  • Attempt takedowns in live situations
  • Competition simulation
  • 3-minute rounds
  • Focus on high-percentage execution

Common Drill Sequences​

Drill 1: Single Leg Finish Variations

  1. Partner gives you single leg position
  2. Finish with run-the-pipe
  3. Reset, finish with trip
  4. Reset, finish with dump
  5. 5 reps each finish type
  6. Build finish options from same position

Drill 2: Takedown Chaining

  1. Attempt single leg
  2. If defended, switch to double leg
  3. If defended, switch to body lock
  4. Flow between all three
  5. 5-minute continuous flow

Drill 3: Setup to Finish

  1. Start in grip fighting position
  2. Create opening with snap/push
  3. Enter takedown explosively
  4. Finish to top position
  5. 10 complete sequences
  6. Full technique from start to finish

See grip fighting integration

Progression Timeline​

Following training methods:

  • Week 1-2: Single technique focus (single leg or double leg)
  • Week 3-4: Entries and finishes for chosen technique
  • Week 5-8: Second takedown, chaining techniques
  • Month 3-6: Live application with resistance
  • Month 6+: Competition ready, teaching others

🔧 Troubleshooting Guide​

Problem: Keep Getting Sprawled On​

Solutions:

  1. Improve level change explosion - drop faster
  2. Penetrate deeper before opponent reacts
  3. Establish better grip control first
  4. Add setups/feints before shooting
  5. Don't telegraph with obvious tells

Problem: Can't Finish Takedowns​

Solutions:

  1. Maintain forward pressure throughout
  2. Keep driving hips forward
  3. Practice finish variations
  4. Don't hold static position
  5. Explode through the finish
  6. Study specific finish mechanics

Problem: Getting Guillotined on Shots​

Solutions:

  1. Keep head up during penetration
  2. Head placement on outside (single leg)
  3. Don't dive head-first into shots
  4. Control opponent's arms first
  5. Practice proper head position
  6. Study guillotine defense

See guillotine details

Problem: Opponent Backs Away​

Solutions:

  1. Improve grip fighting to prevent escape
  2. Cut angles instead of straight pursuit
  3. Use feints to freeze them
  4. Consider pulling guard instead
  5. Pressure forward constantly

Problem: No Explosive Power​

Solutions:

  1. Practice level change drills daily
  2. Build leg strength (squats, lunges)
  3. Plyometric training
  4. Drill explosiveness specifically
  5. Focus on timing over strength

💡 Advanced Concepts​

Shot Selection Strategy​

Against Tall Opponents:

  • Single leg (easier to reach)
  • Low level attacks
  • Ankle picks
  • Avoid shots requiring deep penetration

Against Short/Stocky Opponents:

  • Body locks
  • Throws
  • Sacrifice techniques
  • Avoid wrestling-style leg shots

Against Skilled Wrestlers:

  • Focus on grip fighting advantage
  • Judo-style throws
  • Consider guard pull
  • Don't engage in pure wrestling exchanges

Against Guard Pullers:

  • Stay patient, don't rush
  • Maintain good posture
  • Be ready for pull attempts
  • Control grips defensively

Combination Attacks​

Single to Double:

  1. Shoot single leg
  2. They defend by pulling leg back
  3. Immediately switch to double leg
  4. Catch both legs as they shift

Double to Single:

  1. Shoot double leg
  2. They sprawl heavily
  3. Release one leg
  4. Finish single leg on remaining leg

Shot to Front Headlock:

  1. Shoot takedown
  2. They sprawl successfully
  3. Immediately control head
  4. Transition to front headlock position
  5. Finish guillotine or take back

Gi vs No-Gi Takedown Differences​

Gi Takedowns:

  • Extensive grip fighting first
  • Collar and sleeve control
  • Judo throws more available
  • Slower, more methodical
  • Grip breaks essential
  • Sacrifice throws work well

No-Gi Takedowns:

  • Emphasis on underhooks and body locks
  • Wrestling-style shots dominant
  • Faster exchanges
  • Less control, more timing
  • Head position critical
  • Slippery, requires tighter control

Competition Strategy​

Point Management:

  • Takedown = 2 points (IBJJF)
  • Most valuable standing score
  • Establishes top position advantage
  • Failed attempt may give opponent position
  • Strategic guard pull if unsuccessful

Time Management:

  • Don't waste time in failed attempts
  • Have backup plan (guard pull)
  • Know when to abandon technique
  • Avoid stalling penalties
  • Balance aggression with safety

Counter Wrestling​

Sprawl Defense:

  • Hips back explosively
  • Hands down on opponent's back
  • Pressure down on shoulders
  • Circle to front headlock
  • Transition to guillotine or back take

Guillotine Counter:

  • Keep head up and outside
  • Control opponent's choking arm
  • Pass guard while defending
  • Don't ignore the threat
  • Learn proper head position

Re-Shot After Failed Attempt:

  • Stay connected if first shot fails
  • Immediately attempt second attack
  • Don't give opponent reset time
  • Chain multiple attempts
  • Persistence often succeeds

🎯 Belt-Level Expectations​

White Belt Goals​

Referenced in Beginner's Journey:

  • Understand basic takedown mechanics (Month 3-4)
  • One reliable takedown (single or double leg)
  • Proper level change technique
  • Safe head positioning
  • Basic finish from successful entry
  • Awareness of guillotine danger

Blue Belt Development​

Referenced in Skill Progression:

  • 2-3 reliable takedowns
  • Multiple finishes per takedown
  • Integration with grip fighting
  • Competition application
  • Chaining takedowns together
  • Defending common counters
  • Teaching white belts basics

Purple Belt Mastery​

  • Complete takedown system (4+ techniques)
  • Advanced setups and combinations
  • Teaching advanced concepts
  • Competition specialization
  • Seamless integration with ground game
  • Counter-wrestling proficiency
  • Takedowns become primary weapon

🎯 Next Steps​

After understanding takedown fundamentals:

  1. Master one takedown completely → Single leg recommended for beginners
  2. Integrate grip fighting → Grip Fighting creates opportunities
  3. Learn finish variations → Multiple ways to complete each takedown
  4. Add second takedown → Build versatility with double leg or body lock
  5. Practice chaining → Link techniques together for combinations
  6. Study counters → Defend against common defenses (sprawl, guillotine)
  7. Apply in competition → Test techniques under pressure

🔗 Related Resources​

Standing Station Components​

Positions From Successful Takedowns​

Submission Risks​

  • Guillotine - Primary counter to shots
  • Triangle - Risk when passing after takedown
  • Kimura - Counter to poor grip control

Fundamental Concepts​

Progress Tracking​