Takedowns are probably the most critical part of wrestling, for they not only allow one to score points, but also to have control over the match. In the case of newcomers, acquiring the right basic techniques is a must. These simple takedowns result in confidence building, sharpening of timing, and teaching the wrestler how to make spaces between himself and the opponent. Being able to perform them well at an early stage gives one a substantial edge on the mat.
Before moving to takedowns, making sure one understands the basic shot is a must. A clean shot is going to make it possible for you to enter like a pro, be balanced, and change into your preferred attack. Without that, very simple takedowns will be difficult to execute as well. Once your shot is smooth and under control, you will be able to connect it easily to the techniques mentioned below.
Before You Start: The Basic Shot
Every takedown begins with one major skill: the shot. No clean shot means no proper entry and no takedown with control at the end.
A proper shot contains:
- Lowering your level
- Dropping your knee between his legs
- Stepping in
- Maintaining a straight back
- Doing it in one smooth, explosive move
A good shot is the perfect basis for all the takedowns given below.
1) Double Leg Takedown
Among all the wrestling moves, the double leg takedown is the one that is most often taught to beginners and also that which they forthwith adopt as a reliable opener. From the moment of bending down and coming in, you form the scissors position with both arms behind your opponent’s knees. In this situation, you have excellent control and can utilize your weight and motion to effectively disrupt their balance.
After getting your arms in between, push with your legs while your head stays close to the hip of the opponent. You can finish your movement by either pulling their legs towards you or taking them off the mat for an easy return. If you do the takedown often, it will be easy, and you will be sure to use it in competitions.
2) Single Leg Takedown
The single-leg takedown proves to be quite effective against opponents defending the double leg or remaining in a powerful stance. You shoot in and target the opponent’s front leg, wrapping their foot with your inside hand and their ankle with your outside hand. This allows you to have stable control over their balance and movements.
After the leg is caught, get up and turn to the side to draw the opponent off balance. You can also apply small tripping or twisting actions to make your opponent go down. The single leg is always versatile and effective, hence it is a must-have takedown for novices looking for more than one way to score. Also Read: Technical Fall in Wrestling
3) Rear Body Lock Takedown
The rear body lock is a technique that is mostly used when you have the opponent’s back under control, which is very common in scrambles and transitions. You have to make the tightest possible arms lock around their waist and place one foot behind one of their feet in a T-shape. By doing this, you create a strong base that makes it very hard for your opponent to escape from the hold.
Once you have secured your foot position, move your free leg between their legs and sit back while simultaneously pulling them downwards. Your opponent will be thrown off balance by this, and thus, they will end up on the mat. By rolling through, you will not only get to a dominating position, but you will also make this takedown very easy and very effective.
4) Snap Down to Front Headlock Takedown
The Snap Down is a very effective takedown technique, which not only allows you to control your opponent’s head but also to break their posture as well. To execute this maneuver, start with a collar tie or a head control, then apply a sharp downward pull to draw their upper body down towards the mat. This action quickly disrupts their equilibrium and opens the door for subsequent strikes.
As the rival sinks into a front headlock, you can apply a variety of options to get him out. You can easily take them down by spinning behind, going for their ankle, or applying more holds. This technique works particularly well with aggressive and upright wrestlers and is also easy for novices to learn.
Final Thoughts
The mastery of these four basic wrestling takedowns is a very good starting point for an amateur. When doing the double leg, single leg, rear body lock, and snap down takedowns every day, you will get better at both offense and defense. Each position builds up the triad of mat skills: confidence, balance, and control, which are all important factors for a wrestler’s success.
Wrestling requires labor as well as precision. Training these takedowns daily will turn them into your regular thought, hence you might use them instinctively during battles. Make it a point to look closely at the tech, timing, and proper entry for each move so that you can reap the full benefits from it. These basics will help beginners win even in the highest-level competitions.
FAQs About Wrestling Takedowns
1: What is the easiest takedown for beginners?
The double leg takedown is usually thought to be the easiest one since it is based on very basic mechanics: going down, taking both legs, and pushing through. After some time, it is going to be a trustworthy and adaptable move for point scoring.
2: How can I improve my takedown speed?
Speed is generated by doing the same thing over and over again and using the right technique. Practice shots and takedowns frequently, work on explosive leg drive, and stay low. The easier your entry is, the quicker you can finish the move.
3: Can beginners use all four takedowns in a match?
Of course, all four takedowns—double leg, single leg, rear body lock, and snap down—can be used by beginners. First, learn each one separately, then practice mixing them up for more versatility during the matches.
4: How often should I practice these takedowns?
Daily or almost daily practice is the best. Even spending 15–30 minutes every day on proper technique and repetition can significantly enhance the skill. Consistency creates muscle memory and also boosts confidence on the mat.
