Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has a variety of effective takedowns, many of which are adapted from judo, wrestling, and sambo. Here are some key takedowns commonly used in BJJ that blend well with the sport's focus on ground control and submissions:

1. Single-Leg Takedown

How: Grab one of your opponent’s legs, either by their knee or ankle, and pull it toward you while driving forward.

Details: Effective for setting up guard passes immediately after landing on the ground. Often seen in no-gi settings due to its simplicity and versatility.

Tip: Push off your back foot for leverage and keep your head on the outside of their leg.


2. Double-Leg Takedown

How: Level change, step in close, and grab both legs behind the knees. Drive with your shoulder into their hips while pulling their legs toward you.

Details: Powerful and versatile; a classic wrestling move that is widely effective in BJJ, particularly for no-gi.

Tip: After the takedown, keep chest-to-chest control to prevent them from establishing guard.


3. Osoto Gari (Outer Reap)

How: Control their upper body, step to the side, and sweep their leg out from under them while leaning your weight forward.

Details: A judo technique, this takedown works well in the gi where you can establish grips on your opponent's collar or sleeve.

Tip: Focus on balance and timing; the reap should be quick and smooth.


4. Uchi Mata (Inner Thigh Throw)

How: Control your opponent with grips, step into them, and use one leg to lift their inner thigh while turning your body to throw them.

Details: A versatile judo throw that’s effective when the opponent is leaning forward or resisting.

Tip: Use your hips to elevate their weight; timing and grip control are crucial.


5. Foot Sweep (De Ashi Barai)

How: With a collar and sleeve grip, sweep your opponent’s foot as they step forward.

Details: Fast and low-risk, this move works well in both gi and no-gi, especially if the opponent is moving.

Tip: Catch them mid-step; it's all about timing rather than strength.


6. Body Lock Takedown

How: Lock your arms around your opponent’s waist from behind or from the side, then pull their hips in while pushing or tripping them over.

Details: This wrestling-style move is powerful and great for no-gi scenarios.

Tip: Keep your chest close and your weight forward to control them as they fall.


7. Tomoe Nage (Stomach Throw)

How: Grab your opponent’s collar, place your foot on their hip or stomach, and fall back while lifting them over you.

Details: Works well with gi grips and allows for a quick transition into sweeps or submissions.

Tip: Aim to direct them overhead in a controlled manner, which can set up a dominant top position on the ground.


8. Ankle Pick

How: From a collar or head control, reach down and grab their ankle, pulling it upward while pushing their upper body.

Details: Excellent for catching opponents off-guard and transitioning directly into a dominant ground position.

Tip: Lower your level before reaching for the ankle to keep your balance and leverage.


9. Kouchi Gari (Inside Foot Sweep)

How: Control the opponent’s upper body with grips and use your foot to hook behind their ankle and pull it toward you.

Details: A quick and subtle move that works well when opponents are stepping backward or are off-balance.

Tip: Make contact with their foot lightly, then add pressure to sweep.


10. Drop Seoi Nage (Drop Shoulder Throw)

How: Step in close with a grip on their arm, squat down, and use your shoulder and body to roll them over you.

Details: Common in the gi, this throw can lead directly into a strong pin or control position on the ground.

Tip: Drop low with your knees bent to create leverage, making the throw smoother.


Each of these takedowns can be customized based on your opponent’s stance, the gi or no-gi setting, and your personal style. Practicing these with proper breakfalls and drills is key for safety and effectiveness.

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