Introduction and Credentials
Cary Kolat, a 2000 Olympian and two-time NCAA champion with two world medals, presents his signature sweep single takedown technique. This instruction represents decades of elite-level wrestling experience and proven competitive success.
The Philosophy: Keep It Simple, Sweep It
Kolat emphasizes controlling the match from the opening handshake by establishing hand contact and dictating pace immediately. His foundational rule for all single-leg attacks prioritizes simplicity and aggressive intent to set the tone of competition.
Crosshand Setup and the Hit
The setup begins with a heavy crosshand strike to the opponent's body, creating an opening for the single-leg attack. This aggressive motion forces the opponent to react defensively, generating the quick step necessary to execute the technique effectively.
Transition Strategy to Finishing Moves
Rather than stopping at the initial takedown, Kolat developed transition sequences into crotch lifts and variations of bow-and-arrow control. Elite-level wrestling demands that takedowns flow naturally into turns and advanced positioning based on the opponent's defensive movement.
Hand Placement Without Locking
Kolat avoids traditional hand-locking on the single leg, instead keeping his palm on the mat for enhanced mobility and speed. This approach, influenced by coach John Smith's philosophy of penetrating past the opponent's head and hands, provides superior positioning and quicker execution.
The Hit, Drop, and Push Sequence
The technique flows through three distinct phases: the aggressive hit to open the opponent, the drop with palm support for balance, and the push to establish strong positional control. This sequence ensures stability before transitioning into the high-leg finishing phase.
Sweeping and Trapping the Leg
Once penetration is achieved, Kolat sweeps the opponent's leg upward and secures it in a trapped position. This action removes the opponent's ability to base and creates the foundation for the finishing sequence.
The Lifting Punch and Upper Body Mechanics
Rather than simply holding the leg, Kolat executes a punching motion upward through the trapped leg, channeling power from his entire body weight. This dynamic upper-body action initiates the opponent's loss of balance before the final blocking movement.
The Block and Final Pressure
Kolat lifts onto his toes while driving his free leg to block rather than kick at the opponent's base foot, preventing stabilization. This coordinated body weight pressure applied to the spine completes the takedown by eliminating the opponent's ability to recover or escape.
Sweep Single Takedown - Cary Kolat Wrestling Moves
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction and Credentials
- •The Philosophy: Keep It Simple, Sweep It
- •Crosshand Setup and the Hit
- •Transition Strategy to Finishing Moves
Cary Kolat teaches his Sweep Single to High Leg Finish Takedown for Collegiate or Freestyle Wrestling. Kolat teaches both his mentality behind setting up the Sweep Single as well as how to execute the move. Watch our YouTube Shorts and help us dominate the wrestling category: https://www.youtube.com/@KOLATCOM/shorts Membership: By becoming a member of our @KOLATCOM YouTube Channel you will get access to members only videos organized in a progressive manner to make learning easier! Join: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC1WdLqjv2YpzZ-0GX6G7fw/join KOLAT.COM Video Library: https://www.kolat.com/ The KOLAT.COM Video Library that Cary Kolat created includes Cary's Signature Curriculum that every coach and beginning wrestler can use to advance themselves in the sport. Cary also has advanced techniques, strength training, and nutrition for the experienced wrestlers all the way up to World Class Level. Cary is a 4x State Champion, a 2x NCAA Champion, a 2x World Medalist, and Olympian. Cary was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2017! Contact: [email protected]
Related Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard low single?
This video covers introduction and credentials, the philosophy: keep it simple, sweep it, crosshand setup and the hit. It provides detailed instruction from Cary Kolat.
How long does it take to learn standard low single?
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 standard low single?
Rather than simply holding the leg, Kolat executes a punching motion upward through the trapped leg, channeling power from his entire body weight. This dynamic upper-body action initiates the opponent's loss of balance before the final blocking movement.
Related videos
Brock Hardy Low Single Leg Attacks | Technique Tuesday
FloWrestling
John Smith teaches his legendary low single | 6x World & Olympic Champion
FloWrestling
Low single set ups from a clinch, golf swing details, head on the outside for single leg takedowns
Ramsey Dewey
John Smith teaches his legendary low single | 6x World & Olympic Champion
FloWrestling
2 EASY Single Leg FINISHES!
TeachMeGrappling Coach Brian