Takedown

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Takedown

A takedown is a martial arts and combat sports technique that involves off-balancing an opponent and bringing them to the ground, typically with the attacker landing on top. Takedowns are a fundamental aspect of wrestling, judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, sambo, and mixed martial arts (MMA).

Types of Takedowns[edit | edit source]

There are various types of takedowns, each with its own techniques and strategies. Some of the most common types include:

  • Single-leg takedown: This involves grabbing one of the opponent's legs and driving them to the ground.
  • Double-leg takedown: This involves grabbing both of the opponent's legs and lifting them off the ground to bring them down.
  • Hip throw: A technique where the attacker uses their hip as a pivot point to throw the opponent over.
  • Trips: Techniques that involve tripping the opponent's legs to off-balance and bring them down.
  • Sweeps: Techniques that involve sweeping the opponent's legs out from under them.

Applications in Sports[edit | edit source]

Takedowns are crucial in various combat sports:

  • In wrestling, takedowns score points and can lead to advantageous positions.
  • In judo, takedowns (known as nage-waza) are used to throw the opponent to the ground.
  • In Brazilian jiu-jitsu, takedowns are used to bring the fight to the ground where practitioners can apply submissions.
  • In mixed martial arts, takedowns are used to control the opponent and set up ground-and-pound or submissions.

Defense Against Takedowns[edit | edit source]

Defending against takedowns is equally important. Common defensive techniques include:

  • Sprawling: Spreading the legs and hips back to avoid being taken down.
  • Underhooks and Overhooks: Controlling the opponent's arms to prevent them from completing the takedown.
  • Balance and footwork: Maintaining a strong base and good footwork to avoid being off-balanced.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

Categories[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD