Martial arts is an ever-evolving world; Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is no exception. BJJ focuses heavily on ground fighting and submission techniques as a grappling-based martial art. However, to effectively transition from standing to ground fighting, you need to master the art of takedowns. For BJJ newbies, learning takedowns can seem like a challenging task. Yet, it is an essential skill to develop to become a well-rounded practitioner. This article will cover five simple takedown steps for BJJ beginners, which will help you improve your overall game and boost your confidence on the mats.
The 5 Steps
The five steps to make BJJ takedowns for beginners simple are:
1. Proper Footwork
2. Understanding the Grips
3. The Right Timing
4. The Right Angle
5. The Take Down
Each of these steps is important to master to execute a successful takedown.
Step #1: Proper Footwork
Proper footwork is essential for a successful takedown. The first thing you need to do is to establish your base. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, with your weight evenly distributed between them. This will allow you to maintain your balance and stability.
Once you have established your base, you must focus on your footwork. You should always be in motion and never stand still. This will make it harder for your opponent to predict your movements and make it easier for you to execute a takedown.
Step #2: Understanding the Grips
Understanding the grips is crucial to executing a successful takedown. You need to know where to grip your opponent and how to maintain your grip. There are different types of grips that you can use, such as collar grips, sleeve grips, and pant grips.
Collar grips are used to control your opponent’s upper body, while sleeve grips are used to control your opponent’s arms. Pant grips are used to control your opponent’s legs. Learning how to use these grips effectively and maintain them throughout the takedown is important.
Step #3: The Right Timing
Timing is everything in BJJ. You must know when to execute a takedown and when to wait for the right moment. You should observe your opponent’s movements and look for openings to execute a takedown.
Timing is also important when it comes to setting up a takedown. You must fake your opponent and make them think you are going for one move while setting up for the takedown.
Step #4: The Right Angle
The right angle is crucial to executing a successful takedown. You need to position yourself at the right angle to make it easier to take down your opponent. You should always try to get to your opponent’s side or back, as this will make it easier to take them down.
Positioning yourself at the right angle will also make it harder for your opponent to defend against your takedown. They will have less leverage and will be off-balance, making it easier for you to execute the takedown.
Step #5: The Take Down
The final step is the takedown itself. There are different types of takedowns that you can use, such as single-leg takedowns, double-leg takedowns, and hip throws. You must choose the right takedown depending on the situation and your opponent’s movements.
When executing the takedown, you must be explosive and commit to the move. You should use your entire body to remove your opponent, not just your arms. You should also maintain your balance and stability throughout the takedown.
Conclusion
BJJ takedowns can be difficult for beginners to master, but by following these five steps, you can make them simple and easy to execute. Proper footwork, understanding the grips, the right timing, the right angle, and the takedown itself are all crucial to executing a successful takedown. By practicing these steps, you will become more confident in your takedowns and easily take down your opponents.
Don’t wait any longer to discover your true potential in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Train at Marcus Soares BJJ gym in Vancouver and become the martial artist you’ve always wanted to be. Contact us to schedule a class and start your BJJ journey today.
