Introduction to Fundamental Clinch Takedowns

Roy Marsh introduces two essential takedowns from the clinch: the body fold and leg fold. These techniques form the foundation of clinch takedown strategy and are effective across MMA, self-defense, and competitive combat sports. Both takedowns are distinguished by their efficiency and reliability when properly executed.

Establishing the Proper Clinch Position

The clinch begins with pushing the opponent's hands down and stepping in with the outside leg to achieve full body contact. The instructor emphasizes establishing a line of contact from shoulder to hip rather than relying on isolated hand grips. The body must remain glued to the opponent's hips to prevent escapes and defend against strikes.

Hand Positioning and Grip Selection

Once body contact is achieved, the hands lock using a gable grip, ball-and-hook grip, or S-grip depending on opponent body type and personal preference. The clinch must maintain hip-to-hip pressure, as any separation creates vulnerability to strikes and provides escape opportunities. Head placement should remain slightly in front to protect the face.

Clinch Maintenance and Defense Fundamentals

Maintaining the clinch is as critical as establishing it; strong entry techniques are ineffective if the opponent immediately breaks away. The opponent will attempt two primary escapes: punching their way out or backing hips away to regain striking distance. Proper stance with open, bent legs provides the base necessary to control movement and counter these escape attempts.

Reading Opponent Posture to Select Takedowns

The instructor employs a reactive approach, reading the opponent's posture and leg position to determine which takedown to execute. If the opponent maintains square feet, stays upright, or leans back, the body fold takedown becomes the optimal choice. This efficiency-focused strategy prioritizes exploiting the opponent's natural position rather than forcing a predetermined technique.

Body Fold Takedown Mechanics

The body fold is executed by backing the hips slightly while pushing with the head and pulling with the arms simultaneously. The technique involves rising onto the toes, lifting the opponent's hips, and driving the head down to bend them at the waist. As the opponent falls, the grip is released in favor of cupping the back to control the landing.

Proper Landing and Positional Control

Upon completion of the takedown, the instructor must land beside the opponent with knees and elbows connecting to the mat, positioning themselves above the opponent's thigh. Descending with the opponent rather than collapsing on top prevents the opponent from immediately escaping or counterattacking. The legs should remain unlocked during the descent to maintain control and prevent roll-overs.

Positional Adjustments and Follow-Up

If the instructor finds themselves positioned to the side, a step in front corrects the angle before completing the takedown. The head placement must remain neutral to avoid exposing the neck or face. Once the opponent is grounded, maintaining connection prevents them from reversing the position or regaining their feet.

Two Fundamental Takedowns from the Clinch

roymarsh jiujitsu

From Clinch

3 min read·8 key moments·PT12M18S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Fundamental Clinch Takedowns
•Establishing the Proper Clinch Position
•Hand Positioning and Grip Selection
•Clinch Maintenance and Defense Fundamentals

These are two fundamental self defense takedowns from the Clinch

Related Techniques

From Closed Guard

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about from clinch?

This video covers introduction to fundamental clinch takedowns, establishing the proper clinch position, hand positioning and grip selection. It provides detailed instruction from roymarsh jiujitsu.

How long does it take to learn from clinch?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.