Most BJJ schools start on the ground, but real fights start standing. Knowing how to take someone down – or avoid being taken down – is essential for self-defense and competition. This guide covers fundamental takedowns every white belt should learn.
Why Takedowns Matter
BJJ is ground fighting, but you have to get there first:
- Self-defense: Aggressors start standing
- Competition: Points for takedowns
- MMA: Getting to ground safely
- Control: Dictate where the fight goes
Double Leg Takedown
The most fundamental and effective takedown in grappling.
How It Works
- Level change (drop hips)
- Step deep between opponent is legs
- Drive through with shoulder
- Lift and run them down
Key Details
- Head to the side (not in center)
- Control both legs
- Drive forward, not down
- Finish in side control or mount
Common Mistakes
- Bending at waist (not hips)
- Head in center (easy guillotine)
- Not penetrating deep enough
- Stopping after entry (keep driving)
Single Leg Takedown
Grab one leg and work to finish. More technical but very effective.
How It Works
- Control one leg at the knee/ankle
- Head inside their hip
- Run them down or trip
- Finish in top position
Finishes
- Run the pipe (push knee out)
- Trip with your leg
- Lift and return
Osoto Gari (Major Outer Reap)
A Judo throw that works great in BJJ with minor modifications.
How It Works
- Control opponent is upper body
- Step across their body
- Sweep reaping leg
- Throw them backward
When to Use
When opponent is pushing forward into you. Uses their momentum against them.
Pull Guard vs Takedown
Sometimes pulling guard is better than attempting a takedown:
Pull Guard When:
- Opponent is much better wrestler
- You have dangerous guard
- Time is running out and you are down on points
Takedown When:
- You are confident in standing
- You need points
- Self-defense situation
Sprawling: Defending Takedowns
If you cannot take them down, at least stop them from taking you down.
Sprawl Technique
- Push head down
- Throw legs back
- Circle to front
- Establish top position
Countering Shots
- Guillotine if they leave neck exposed
- Sprawl and brawl
- Whizzer and go behind
Drilling Takedowns
Entry Drills
Practice level changes and entries without finishing. Build muscle memory.
Progressive Resistance
Start with cooperative drilling, add resistance gradually.
Sparring from Standing
Begin rolls from feet occasionally. Most schools start on knees – ask to start standing.
Competition Considerations
Pulling Guard in BJJ
Legal and common. You sacrifice top position but get to your strength immediately.
Stalling Calls
In competition, you cannot pull guard and then stall. Must be active immediately.
Bottom Line
Every BJJ practitioner should have at least one reliable takedown. Double leg is the best place to start – simple, effective, and works at all levels. Do not spend all your time on the ground. Learn to get there on your terms.