The double leg takedown is one of the most effective and commonly used takedowns in mixed martial arts and wrestling. It involves taking down an opponent by wrapping both arms around their legs and driving them to the ground. Defending against this takedown is essential for any fighter or wrestler, as being taken down can lead to a disadvantageous position on the ground. In this article, we will explore different techniques and strategies for defending against the double leg takedown.
1. Sprawling:
The first and most basic technique for defending against the double leg takedown is sprawling. Sprawling involves dropping one's hips and pushing the opponent's head down when they attempt to shoot for the takedown. This technique is effective because it makes it difficult for the opponent to maintain their grip on the legs, and it puts them in a vulnerable position.
To perform a sprawl, the defender should first anticipate the takedown attempt and prepare to react quickly. When the opponent shoots for the legs, the defender should drop their hips as low as possible while pushing down on the opponent's head. This should be done simultaneously to create maximum resistance and prevent the opponent from gaining any momentum. Once the opponent is stopped in their tracks, the defender should immediately step back and create distance to prevent them from attempting the takedown again.
2. Whizzer:
Another effective technique for defending against the double leg takedown is the whizzer. The whizzer involves wrapping one arm around the opponent's neck and the other arm around their arm when they attempt to shoot for the takedown. This technique is effective because it creates leverage and allows the defender to control the opponent's body.
To perform a whizzer, the defender should first anticipate the takedown attempt and prepare to react quickly. When the opponent shoots for the legs, the defender should wrap one arm around their neck and the other arm around their arm. The defender should then use their hips to drive the opponent's body away from them while pulling their whizzer arm down, creating leverage and making it difficult for the opponent to maintain their grip on the legs. Once the opponent is stopped in their tracks, the defender should immediately create distance to prevent them from attempting the takedown again.
3. Front Headlock:
The front headlock is another effective technique for defending against the double leg takedown. It involves grabbing the opponent's head and arm when they attempt to shoot for the takedown and controlling their body from the front. This technique is effective because it allows the defender to control the opponent's head and upper body, making it difficult for them to complete the takedown.
To perform a front headlock, the defender should first anticipate the takedown attempt and prepare to react quickly. When the opponent shoots for the legs, the defender should immediately grab their head and arm and control their upper body. The defender should then use their hips to drive the opponent's body away from them, making it difficult for them to maintain their grip on the legs. Once the opponent is stopped in their tracks, the defender can choose to transition to a guillotine choke or take the opponent's back.
4. Sprawl and Spin:
The sprawl and spin technique is an advanced technique for defending against the double leg takedown. It involves sprawling to defend the initial takedown attempt and then spinning around to take the opponent's back. This technique is effective because it allows the defender to turn the tables on the opponent and gain a dominant position.
To perform a sprawl and spin, the defender should first anticipate the takedown attempt and prepare to react quickly. When the opponent shoots for the legs, the defender should drop their hips and push down on the opponent's head to defend the takedown. Once the opponent is stopped in their tracks, the defender should quickly spin around and take their back, using the momentum from the sprawl to gain a dominant position. From there, the defender can look to secure a rear naked choke or other submission.
5. Knee Defense:
The knee defense is another effective technique for defending against the double leg takedown. It involves using the knee to block the opponent's takedown attempt and create distance. This technique is effective because it allows the defender to use their legs to defend the takedown and prevent the opponent from closing the distance.
To perform a knee defense, the defender should first anticipate the takedown attempt and prepare to react quickly. When the opponent shoots for the legs, the defender should lift their knee and place it in front of the opponent's chest, blocking their forward momentum. The defender should then use their other leg to create distance and prevent the opponent from closing the distance again. Once the opponent is stopped in their tracks, the defender can look to strike or create another opening for a counterattack.
6. Counter Takedown:
The counter takedown is another effective technique for defending against the double leg takedown. It involves using the opponent's momentum against them and taking them down instead. This technique is effective because it allows the defender to turn the tables on the opponent and gain a dominant position.
To perform a counter takedown, the defender should first anticipate the takedown attempt and prepare to react quickly. When the opponent shoots for the legs, the defender should use their hips to create space and then use the opponent's momentum to take them down instead. This can be done by grabbing the opponent's arm or leg and using it to throw them off balance. Once the opponent is down, the defender can look to secure a dominant position and work towards a submission.
Defending against the double leg takedown is essential for any fighter or wrestler, as being taken down can lead to a disadvantageous position on the ground. By using techniques such as sprawling, the whizzer, the front headlock, the sprawl and spin, the knee defense, and the counter takedown, fighters can effectively defend against this takedown and gain a dominant position. With practice and dedication, these techniques can become a valuable tool in any fighter or wrestler's arsenal.
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