Single Leg Takedown Overview
The single leg takedown is described as one of the highest-percentage wrestling techniques for taking down skilled opponents. Successful execution requires proper foot positioning and stance adjustment before initiating the attack.
Initial Positioning and Penetration Step
The attacker positions their lead leg close to the target leg and executes a penetration step outside the opponent's foot while lowering their level. The hands are placed behind the knee and pulled toward the chest as the movement is initiated.
Head Position and Pressure Application
Proper head position is critical, with the head placed against the opponent's chest or ribs rather than looking upward, which prevents the opponent from breaking posture and sprawling. The attacker uses head and body pressure rather than arm strength to drive the opponent backward and lift the leg.
Leg Control and Chest Pressure
Once secured on the leg, the attacker maintains heavy chest pressure while using the grip behind the knee to curl the leg downward toward the calf. The attacker remains in a deeply squatted stance to prevent the opponent from manipulating posture or moving the head to the side.
Knee-Based Entry Variation
When the opponent is in a low stance with good sprawl defense, the attacker can instead drive to their own lead knee using an outside penetration step. The attacking leg is posted to transition back to standing posture while maintaining control.
Setup Using Collar Tie Control
A common setup involves establishing inside control similar to a high crotch, then chopping the opponent's attacking hand and sweeping around to access the single leg on the opposite side. This approach addresses situations where a collar tie alone is insufficient to penetrate.
The Pick Finish - Leg Extension and Ankle Grip
The primary finishing technique, called the pick, involves lunging the back leg straight while keeping chest pressure heavy on the opponent's leg and reaching to the ankle. The attacker must straighten their back leg to create room and simultaneously secure the knee between their thigh and chest to prevent the opponent from hooking the inside knee.
Securing the Ankle and Setting Trips
Once the pick is established, the attacker moves elbow-deep to hike up the knee and pull the ankle tightly into their armpit. From this position, the attacker can execute trips around the opponent's collar or above the knee using their free hand.
Trip Execution and Knee Control
The attacker trips by pulling the opponent backward around the collar while using their knee, or by pushing the opponent's body while kicking above the knee. It is essential to maintain control of the opponent's knee as the trip is executed to prevent the opponent from escaping or dragging the attacker underneath them.
Wrestling basics #2: Single Leg Takedown
Key Takeaways
- •Single Leg Takedown Overview
- •Initial Positioning and Penetration Step
- •Head Position and Pressure Application
- •Leg Control and Chest Pressure
Niagara Top Team's rec class wrestling coach Alex Moher breaks down the basics of the highest percentage wrestling takedown: The Single Leg
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about single leg takedown?
This video covers single leg takedown overview, initial positioning and penetration step, head position and pressure application. It provides detailed instruction from Niagara Top Team.
How long does it take to learn single leg takedown?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing single leg takedown?
Once the pick is established, the attacker moves elbow-deep to hike up the knee and pull the ankle tightly into their armpit. From this position, the attacker can execute trips around the opponent's collar or above the knee using their free hand.
