Beginner's Guide to the Double Leg

Summary

This wrestling tutorial focuses on the traditional double leg takedown, emphasizing its accessibility and effectiveness. The instructor teaches the technique in conjunction with the blast double, highlighting the importance of stance and motion. Key points include using the drop step, maintaining good head and body position, and leveraging level changes for power. The video also addresses defensive scenarios and offers variations for different skill levels, ensuring viewers can practice safely and effectively.

Takeaways

• 🤼 The traditional double leg takedown is a fundamental technique in wrestling and grappling, often taught as an accessible skill for beginners.
• 🔄 The double leg takedown is closely related to the blast double, sharing similar footwork and body mechanics.
• 👣 The technique emphasizes the importance of stance and motion, with the drop step playing a crucial role in initiating the takedown.
• 🏋️‍♂️ Proper body positioning is key: staying low, driving deep, and using the structure of the skeleton to support the opponent's weight rather than relying on muscle.
• 🤸‍♂️ The entry into the takedown involves a deep penetration step, with the chest over the knee and elbows disciplined to the sides.
• 🔄 Level changes are a significant aspect of the technique, with the practitioner changing levels three times during the execution.
• 🤲 Hand positioning is crucial, with options like the monkey grip, Gable grip, or S grip, each with its advantages in controlling the opponent.
• 👀 Head positioning is critical for both safety and effectiveness, with the practitioner advised to keep the head up and aligned with the direction of the drive.
• 🔄 If the initial entry is defended, the technique can be adapted by changing direction and using the structure of the body to finish the takedown.
• 🏋️‍♀️ For opponents with great balance, a lifting motion may be necessary, involving stepping around and popping the hips to get the opponent off balance.

Q & A

What is the most common takedown technique discussed in the script?

The most common takedown technique discussed is the traditional double leg takedown.

Why does the instructor teach the double leg takedown right after the blast technique?

The double leg takedown is taught right after the blast technique because the two techniques are similar and can lead into each other, making them accessible to learn in sequence.

What is the importance of stance and motion in executing a takedown?

Stance and motion are crucial for executing a takedown because they help in closing the distance between the wrestler and the opponent, and utilizing the drop step effectively.

How does the drop step play a role in the double leg takedown?

The drop step is used to change levels and get underneath the opponent, which is essential for initiating the double leg takedown.

What is the correct head position when executing the double leg takedown?

The correct head position is to keep the head up and not tilted to the side, ensuring the body's structure supports the opponent's weight without relying on the muscular system.

What grip does the instructor prefer for the double leg takedown and why?

The instructor prefers the monkey paw grip because it allows for control over the top of the wrist, which can be advantageous in the takedown.

How does the setup for the double leg takedown differ from the blast double?

The setup for the double leg takedown involves a deep penetration step and using the stance in motion, whereas the blast double might involve a different approach to close the distance.

What should a wrestler do if their opponent is maintaining balance and not going down during the takedown?

If the opponent is maintaining balance, the wrestler should step around with their lead leg, pop their hips, and use their head and arms to get the opponent horizontal.

How can a wrestler avoid getting guillotined during the double leg takedown entry?

To avoid a guillotine, a wrestler should shrug their shoulders as they enter, keeping their trucks and circumventing the risk of getting guillotined.

What advice does the instructor give regarding practicing the double leg takedown at home?

The instructor advises being mindful of surroundings, clearing the area, and using padding like pillows or blankets to practice safely at home.