How to Do the Single Leg Takedown in BJJ
The single leg takedown targets one of your opponent's legs. It's lower risk than the double leg for guillotines and offers multiple finishing options.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Shoot with a level change
- 2 Grab behind the knee and thigh
- 3 Head on inside or outside depending on finish
- 4 Stand up with the leg controlled
- 5 Finish with trip, lift, or run the pipe
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Grabbing too low on the leg
- ⚠️ Not standing up with the leg
- ⚠️ Staying bent over
- ⚠️ Head position wrong for the finish
- ⚠️ Letting them whizzer and hip away
🔄 Variations
- → High single
- → Low single
- → Sweep single
- → Running the pipe
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Whizzer
- → Guillotine
- → Hip switch
- → Limp leg
Track Your Single Leg Takedown Progress
Log every time you practice the Single Leg Takedown and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
Related Techniques
More Takedowns
View all →Double Leg Takedown
The double leg is a fundamental wrestling takedown adapted for BJJ. You shoot in, grab both legs, an...
Osoto Gari
Osoto gari (major outer reap) is a fundamental judo throw that works great in BJJ. You reap your opp...
Guard Pull
The guard pull is a fundamental technique in sport BJJ that allows you to establish your guard game ...
Ankle Pick
The ankle pick is a wrestling takedown where you snap your opponent down while picking their ankle, ...
Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Single Leg Takedown? ▼
The Single Leg Takedown is typically introduced at the white belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. The beginning of the BJJ journey. Focus on survival, basic positions, and fundamental movements.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Single Leg Takedown works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the Single Leg Takedown? ▼
The Single Leg Takedown is typically executed from standing. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.