Setting Up the Ankle Pick
The ankle pick begins with the attacker establishing control grips on the opponent's collar and wrist. The attacker should aim to grab the ankle as low as possible near the foot, then pull the opponent's head downward to send them over their planted leg.
Establishing Starting Position
The attacker begins in a square standing position with the opponent. When the opponent has one leg back, the attacker uses a wrist control grip combined with a collar tie to control the opponent's upper body and prepare for the takedown.
Creating Foot Placement Advantage
The attacker pulls the opponent's head and wrist using body movement rather than arm strength, causing the opponent to step forward. Proper footwork positioning is critical—the attacker should circle away while maintaining distance, preventing the opponent from having a balanced stance.
The Critical Drop Movement
Rather than driving forward, the attacker must drop their body weight downward and slightly to the side while keeping their head up and maintaining the collar tie. The attacker's trailing knee drops to the floor as their heel comes to their buttocks, causing the opponent's weight to shift directly over their planted foot.
Executing the Takedown
Once the opponent's foot is anchored, the attacker grabs the ankle as low as possible near the foot. Using their dropped position as leverage, the attacker pushes off their planted leg to drive the opponent over their fixed ankle, completing the takedown.
Post-Takedown Control
After successfully executing the ankle pick, the attacker releases the opponent's head while maintaining control of the foot. This positioning allows the attacker to move into a dominant ground position and prepare to pass the opponent's guard.
LEARN The BASIC Ankle Pick TAKEDOWN!!
Key Takeaways
- •Setting Up the Ankle Pick
- •Establishing Starting Position
- •Creating Foot Placement Advantage
- •The Critical Drop Movement
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about outside ankle pick?
This video covers setting up the ankle pick, establishing starting position, creating foot placement advantage. It provides detailed instruction from TeachMeGrappling Coach Brian.
How long does it take to learn outside ankle pick?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 6-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing outside ankle pick?
Once the opponent's foot is anchored, the attacker grabs the ankle as low as possible near the foot. Using their dropped position as leverage, the attacker pushes off their planted leg to drive the opponent over their fixed ankle, completing the takedown.




