Initial Setup and Entry
The practitioner identifies a heavy foot and lowers their level to step directly toward it in a straight line. Upon reaching the leg, they execute a sweep while pulling their trail leg around to initiate the single-leg takedown.
Penetration Position
The shooter steps forward and drives their knee while pulling the trail leg. Proper positioning requires the head positioned in the opponent's gut, shoulder pressed into the thigh, and hand placement above the knee. The opponent's reaction determines which finish technique to employ.
Finish #1 - Drive and Trip
The practitioner attacks the corner quickly before the opponent can sprawl, driving upward to their feet. They elevate the opponent's knee and thigh with their arm while kicking and penetrating, then execute a trip by driving up with elevation.
Finish #2 - Knee Rotation and Leg Climb
When the opponent resists the lift, the practitioner transitions by forcing both opponent hands to the mat. They rotate the opponent's knee to the ground while circling their feet and lowering their level, then climb the leg like a rope while driving the shoulder and hip to complete the takedown.
Finish #3 - Back Hand Through with Sprawl Defense
If the opponent sprawls, the practitioner pulls their back hand through while lowering their hips and rotating. They position their shoulder behind the opponent's thigh with hand placement above the knee, then climb while elevating the ankle to the hip for the finish.
Finish #4 - Hand Switch Against Wizard Guard
When the opponent establishes a wizard guard position, the practitioner switches hand positioning and posts on the outside. They step and limp their arm through the hole while rotating, adapting based on feel if the shoulder cannot improve position.
Single Knee Pressure and Circling
Against a sprawling opponent, the practitioner maintains a single-knee position rather than double knees, constantly cycling pressure forward. This positioning allows for continuous directional changes and pressure application despite strong defensive resistance.
Finish #5 - Outside Leg Step and Pull
The practitioner pokes the outside leg and steps in the opposite direction while pulling downward. They lower their hip, pop their head to the opponent's hip, and pull the leg through straight to the back to complete the takedown.
Finish #6 - Pop Underneath and Ankle Control
Through continuous circling and feeling the opponent's position, the practitioner pops underneath while hiding their ankles. They can either pop the opponent's knee over or control the ankle to pull them into a finishing position.
Finish #7 - Fall and Hook to Top Position
From an elevated position, the practitioner can fall to the opponent's buttocks while hooking the leg. They position their head at the hip and finish from a top position by popping and rotating the opponent's hips while maintaining the hook.
How to Finish a Single Leg Takedown | The School of Wrestling Technique
Key Takeaways
- •Initial Setup and Entry
- •Penetration Position
- •Finish #1 - Drive and Trip
- •Finish #2 - Knee Rotation and Leg Climb
Here are a variety of finishing options for the single leg position.
Related Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about tkd single leg from clinch?
This video covers initial setup and entry, penetration position, finish #1 - drive and trip. It provides detailed instruction from The School of Wrestling.
How long does it take to learn tkd single leg from clinch?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 10-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing tkd single leg from clinch?
Through continuous circling and feeling the opponent's position, the practitioner pops underneath while hiding their ankles. They can either pop the opponent's knee over or control the ankle to pull them into a finishing position.
