How Do You Do a Takedown in Wrestling?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling Wrestling is a combat sport that requires a combination of skill, technique, and strategy. One of the most crucial moves in wrestling is the takedown. A takedown refers to the act of bringing your opponent down to the mat from a standing position. It is a fundamental move that can score you valuable points and put you in control of the match. The Basics Before we dive into the intricacies of performing a takedown, it’s important to understand some basic concepts: Stance: The stance is your starting position in wrestling. It provides balance, stability, and mobility. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight evenly distributed between both legs. Level Change: A level change involves lowering your body’s position to create an opportunity for a takedown. This can be done by bending at the knees or waist. Control: Maintaining control over your opponent’s movements is essential during a takedown. Grips and positioning play a vital role in gaining control. The Double Leg Takedown The double leg takedown is one of the most effective and commonly used techniques in wrestling. Follow these steps to execute it: Setup: Begin by closing the distance between you and your opponent while maintaining good stance and control. Use fakes or feints to create openings for your attack. Level Change: Lower your level by bending at the waist or knees while keeping your back straight. This helps you get closer to your opponent’s legs. Penetration Step: Take a quick step forward with one leg, extending it towards your opponent’s legs. Simultaneously, drive your shoulder into their midsection to disrupt their balance. Drive and Lift: As you make contact with your opponent’s legs, drive forward with your head up and hands clasped around their thighs. Lift them off the mat using explosive power from your legs and hips. Finish: Once you have lifted your opponent off the ground, bring them down forcefully while maintaining control. This can be done by driving them to the side or driving them straight back. The double leg takedown requires practice and timing to execute effectively. It is crucial to maintain a strong grip on your opponent’s legs throughout the entire movement to prevent any counterattacks. Other Takedown Techniques While the double leg takedown is a powerful move, there are various other techniques you can employ in wrestling: Single Leg Takedown: Similar to the double leg takedown, but you Target one of your opponent’s legs instead of both. High Crotch: This technique involves shooting towards your opponent’s upper body and wrapping both arms around one of their legs. Ankle Pick: In this move, you quickly reach down and grab your opponent’s ankle while simultaneously driving forward to take them down. Conclusion Takedowns are an essential part of wrestling and can significantly impact the outcome of a match. Mastering the double leg takedown and other techniques requires practice, timing, and understanding of fundamental principles. Remember to maintain control, stay balanced, and execute each move with precision. With dedication and perseverance, you can become a formidable wrestler capable of executing powerful takedowns.