ssc_marcomms posted on June 21, 2007 20:01
The Play Times takes a look at one of the most common wrestling techniques used- the Single-leg takedown
Takedown
A takedown is a wrestling and combat sports term for a technique that involves off-balancing an opponent and bringing him or her to the ground, typically with the combatant performing the takedown landing on top. The process of quickly advancing on an opponent and attempting a takedown is known as shooting for a takedown, or simply shooting. Takedowns are usually distinguished from throws by the forward motion and target of advancement (typically the legs); the terms are used interchangeably for techniques. Takedowns are featured in all forms of wrestling and stand-up grappling.
Single-leg takedown
The Single-leg takedown is one of the commonly used wrestling techniques often seen in competition, the other being the double-leg takedown and the leg trip. There are many variations of the single-leg such as the low single and with that comes countless finishes that can be performed in combination with the single-leg in order to take the opponent down to the mat.
a) Finishes from the single-leg
Barsagar
The name for this move comes from an Iranian wrestler in the 1970’s who used the move quite effectively. Another name for this technique is the far knee block. This move is commonly used as a finish to the single leg take down.
How to do it - Lift the opponent's left knee so that it is up on your thigh. At the same time, drive into him by stepping across with your left foot and reach with your left hand to the outside of his right knee.
*Tips: Do not try to chop his knee, just block it and continue to drive into the opponent to force him over his right leg.
b) Transition to the double-leg
This move is another common finish to the single-leg takedown that comes naturally and is one of the easiest finishes to learn off a single-leg.
How to do it - Stick your head out by the side of side of your opponent and grab both of your opponents legs behind the knees and drive diagonally across lifting your opponent off the air and straight onto his back.
*Tips: Make sure you grab behind the knees and drive diagonally forward instead of grabbing too high up on the hips as the opponent may be able to sprawl on you.
Defence to the single-leg
Sprawl
Single-leg takedowns can be countered by sprawling. A sprawl is a wrestling term for a defensive technique that is done in response to certain takedown attempts, typically double or single leg takedown attempts. The sprawl is performed by scooting the legs backwards, so as to land on the upper back of the opponent attempting the takedown. The resultant position is also known as a sprawl or sprawling position.
Ideally, the sprawling athlete should arch his back forward as much as possible and keep his knees off the mat. His options here include attempting to gain leverage on the lower back by hooking underneath the elbows; throwing in a headlock; and grabbing his opponent's ankles and trying spin around and get behind his opponent.