BJJ takedowns

A takedown puts the other person on the mat from standing, with you on top. Under IBJJF rules it scores 2 points if you hold the top for 3 seconds.

Learn to fall and to defend before you learn to throw. Many gyms start beginner rolls from the knees.

Shots to the legs

A shot is when you lower your body and go for the legs.

• Double Leg TakedownStep deep and wrap both legs behind the knees, then drive through.
• Single Leg TakedownCatch one leg with your head on the inside, then run them down. Often lands in half guard.
• Ankle PickPull their head down so they step forward, then pick up that ankle.

From the clinch and head ties

The clinch: you are standing with your arms tied up with theirs.

• Body Lock TakedownLock your hands around their lower back and trip them over your leg.
• Snap DownPull their head down as you step back. Leads to the front headlock.
• Collar DragPull their head down and past your hip, then go behind them.

Throws

• Osoto GariPush their weight onto one heel and reap that leg from behind. A judo throw.
• Hip ThrowTurn your hips in low and lift them over your hip. Also called o goshi.

Defence, falling and other ways down

• SprawlThrow your legs back and drop your hips when they shoot.
• BreakfallLand safely: chin tucked, back round, slap the mat with the whole arm.
• Pulling GuardSit down into your guard instead of a takedown. It scores no points.
• StandingThe position where every match starts.
• ClinchThe upper-body tie-up where most takedowns start.