5 basic grappling techniques

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through five fundamental grappling techniques demonstrated by Shintaro Higashi. These techniques are essential for practitioners of various grappling styles, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Judo. Understanding these techniques can help you adapt to different rule sets and improve your overall grappling skills.

Step 1: Double Leg Takedown

The double leg takedown is a powerful technique that allows you to take your opponent down from a standing position.

• Stance: Start in a solid athletic stance with your feet shoulder-width apart.
• Approach: Step forward with one foot while lowering your hips. Keep your head up and look forward.
• Execution:
  • Wrap both arms around your opponent's legs.
  • Drive your shoulder into their midsection.
  • Lift your opponent's legs while pushing forward to take them down.
• Tip: Ensure your head is up to avoid being caught in a guillotine choke.

Step 2: High C Takedown

The high C takedown is effective but requires caution due to the potential for a guillotine choke.

• Positioning: Get low and secure an underhook on one side while positioning your head against your opponent's body.
• Execution:
  • Use your other arm to grab the ankle or knee of the opposite leg.
  • Lift and drive through to take your opponent down.
• Caution: This technique is risky in BJJ due to the guillotine risk; be prepared to defend against it.

Step 3: Single Leg Takedown

The single leg takedown is versatile and can be used against various opponents.

• Setup: Start by faking a double leg to get your opponent off balance.
• Execution:
  • Quickly drop to one knee and grab one of your opponent's legs at the ankle or knee.
  • Pull their leg towards you while pushing forward with your shoulder.
• Tip: Keep your head up to maintain good posture and avoid counters.

Step 4: Front Headlock

The front headlock is a control position that can lead to various submissions or transitions.

• Establish Control: After a takedown or during a scramble, get your opponent's head trapped under your arm.
• Positioning:
  • Use your other arm to secure a grip on the opponent's far arm or body.
• Execution:
  • Pull down on their head to apply pressure while maintaining a strong base.
  • Look for submission opportunities like guillotines or transitions to back control.
• Tip: Keep your weight low to prevent your opponent from escaping.

Step 5: Upper Body Throw

An upper body throw can be an effective way to take down an opponent who is overly aggressive.

• Setup: Get close to your opponent and establish a grip on their upper body.
• Execution:
  • Use your hip to lift and rotate your opponent over your body, throwing them to the mat.
• Tip: Timing is crucial; wait for the right moment when your opponent commits to their attack.

Conclusion

Mastering these five basic grappling techniques—double leg, high C, single leg, front headlock, and upper body throw—will significantly enhance your grappling skills. Practice each technique regularly to build muscle memory and improve your performance in live situations. For more detailed instruction, consider exploring additional resources from Shintaro Higashi or the JudoFanatics series.