The Double Leg Takedown: Avoiding Common Mistakes with Expert Guidance

As an MMA coach, there’s no more effective technique to take down your opponent than the double leg takedown. However, with great power comes great responsibility. In this article, we’ll delve into the six most common mistakes people make when executing this move and provide practical advice on how to correct them.

Understanding the Double Leg Takedown

The double leg takedown is a fundamental technique in MMA that involves using your legs to take down your opponent. It’s a complex movement that requires precise timing, footwork, and body positioning. When executed correctly, it can be an almost unstoppable force on the mat.

Common Mistakes #1: Insufficient Stance

One of the most common mistakes people make when attempting a double leg takedown is not setting up in the correct stance. This can lead to poor balance, reduced control, and increased vulnerability to counterattacks.

Correct Approach: Focus on establishing a strong, stable base with your feet shoulder-width apart. Keep your knees slightly bent and your weight evenly distributed between both legs.

Common Mistakes #2: Overextending

Another critical mistake is overextending in an attempt to execute the takedown. This can put you at risk of being countered or caught off guard.

Correct Approach: Practice controlling your movements and focus on using your opponent’s energy against them. Use feints and fake-outs to create opportunities for a clean takedown.

Common Mistakes #3: Not Engaging the Opponent’s Legs

Failing to engage your opponent’s legs can leave you open to counterattacks and make it difficult to establish control.

Correct Approach: Make sure to keep your hands up, your elbows close, and your focus on the opponent’s legs. Use your legs to push against theirs and create space for a takedown.

Common Mistakes #4: Not Using Your Core

Properly engaging your core is essential for generating power and stability during the execution of the double leg takedown.

Correct Approach: Focus on activating your core muscles by drawing your belly button towards your spine. This will help you maintain balance, generate torque, and execute the takedown with more effectiveness.

Common Mistakes #5: Not Executing a Clean Wrap

A clean wrap is crucial for maintaining control and preventing your opponent from escaping or counterattacking.

Correct Approach: Practice wrapping your arms around your opponent’s legs, keeping them secure and controlled. Focus on using your body positioning to maintain the takedown.

Common Mistakes #6: Not Practicing Proper Recovery

Finally, failing to practice proper recovery techniques after executing a double leg takedown can leave you vulnerable to counterattacks and make it difficult to transition back into a dominant position.

Correct Approach: Focus on quickly returning to a dominant position, using your opponent’s energy against them. Practice transitioning between standing and clinching positions to maintain control and avoid being countered.

Conclusion

The double leg takedown is an incredibly powerful technique that can be devastating when executed correctly. However, it requires patience, dedication, and a deep understanding of the underlying mechanics. By avoiding the six common mistakes outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a formidable opponent in the MMA world.

Call to Action: What’s the most critical mistake you’ve seen someone make when attempting a double leg takedown? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.