As promised, here is the second email about all things takedown related.
The most important concept from that email was: You don’t need to know hundreds of different takedowns, just one takedown really well. I used a lot more words and several examples in the email but that’s the key point.
Once I understood that concept, I became a lot more successful at takedowns. I even started competing in Judo tournaments and did pretty well. (Apart from the time I got concussion but that’s another story.)
All though my takedown strategy has evolved over the years it still starts from the same gripping strategy.
This strategy allows me to control my opponent, neutralise their attacks, and set up my takedowns. That’s what I want to share with you today.
Check out this video I filmed with the Warrior Collective to see my gripping strategy
Once my grips are set my basic flow goes something like this; I off-balance with my initial attack, then follow up with counter attacks depending on their reaction.
Simple.
If you follow this a similar process (grip, off-balance, counter) and train it enough, you can become a takedown machine.
Now you may be thinking “What if they pull guard?” That’s a great question and I’m glad you brought it up. The answer is, you have to train that situation too.
You have to anticipate your opponents guard pull and attack before they lock their guard. (The wrist control I share in the video really helps in this situation)
I typically try to foot sweep or a toreando pass depending on the situation.
We’ve covered a ton of important information in the last two emails. Hopefully, you’ve found them useful and have an idea of how to develop or train a takedown game.
Until next time,
– Tom
P.S. One final point about takedowns. I’ve already said it but often your initial takedown attack may not work.
Don’t let that discourage you.
Be persistent and transition to a second, third, or fourth attack until you complete your takedown or if you feel endanger of being countered. Have a go next time you’re training.