Takedown (Grappling)

Please note that the content of this book primarily consists of articles available from Wikipedia or other free sources online. A takedown is a martial arts and combat sports term for a technique that involves off-balancing an opponent and bringing him or her to the ground, typically with the combatant performing the takedown landing on top. The process of quickly advancing on an opponent and attempting a takedown is known as shooting for a takedown, or simply shooting. Takedowns are usually distinguished from throws by the forward motion and target of advancement (typically the legs), the terms are used interchangeably for techniques. Takedowns are featured in all forms of wrestling and stand-up grappling. Leg trip (depending on type also known as a leg sweep) refers to a technique in which the combatant performing the leg trip uses his or her own leg(s) to off-balance an opponent, hence causing the opponent to fall to the ground. Leg trips are often integrated into more complex takedown techniques, and are also important in many throws. Takedown techniques that are pure leg trips usually involve controlling the body of the opponent, and impeding or destabilizing one or both of the opponents legs.