Takedowns Made Easy(er) for No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu by John Danaher

Introduction

• Presenter: John Danaher
• Context: Second part of the 'standing to ground' instructional series
• Focus: Takedowns in No-Gi BJJ
• Key Concept: Takedowns made easier, not easy, as difficulty depends on opponent skill

Main Themes

Neutral vs. Dominant Positions

• Neutral Positions: Both athletes standing without strong grips or advantage.
  • Most common starting position in matches.
  • Hard to achieve takedowns due to counters and submissions from the opponent.
• Dominant Positions: Positions like a standing rear body lock or short offense (chest on opponent's back).
  • Easier to achieve takedowns.
  • Fewer counters and more control.

Key Positions for Takedowns

• Standing Rear Body Lock: High control, easier takedowns.
• Short Offense: Chest on opponent's back, easier to bring opponent down.
• Position Before Takedown: Similar to 'position before submission'.

Transitioning to Dominant Positions

• Techniques: Arm drags, underhooks, and two-on-one setups to get behind the opponent.
• Focus: Moving from neutral to dominant before attempting takedowns.

Scoring Criteria in Jiu-Jitsu Takedowns

• Differences from Wrestling: Scoring is stricter and more complex.
  • Example: A takedown leading to a sprawl does not score in BJJ but does in wrestling.
• Key Points:
  • One hip and one shoulder must be on the floor for 3 seconds to score.
  • Defensive measures can prevent scoring (e.g., turning to knees, propping on an elbow).
  • Emphasis on transitioning from takedown threat to back take for scoring.

Strategy and Techniques

• Creating Dilemmas: Threaten takedowns to open up opportunities for back takes.
• Dominant Finishing: Rear mount as the most effective scoring and submission position.
• Training Focus: Incorporate habits of transitioning from takedowns to rear mount for effective scoring.

Practical Advice for Learning Takedowns

• Start with Dominant Positions: Easier and more confidence-building than neutral double-legs.
• Low Risk Techniques: Use methods like arm drags and short offense setups to reduce risk and improve success.
• Full-Time Practice: Necessary for mastering the standing position under BJJ rules.

Comparison with Wrestling and MMA

• Wrestling: Valuable but needs adaptation for BJJ rules.
• MMA: Different entries but similar finishing techniques compared to wrestling.
• Examples: GSP's success due to integrated training for MMA, not pure wrestling.

Conclusion

• Key Takeaways: Integration of takedowns with positional control in No-Gi BJJ to increase scoring and submission rates.
• New Course: Second part of the 'standing to ground' series available on BJJ Fanatics.

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