No matter what some may tell you, there’s no shame in being a guard puller. It’s a legit move and tactic to use in training and competition alike; so, as far as sports Jiu-Jitsu is concerned, go for it (especially when facing a D1 wrestler in your final match).
However, even if you pull guard all the time, you’d still benefit immensely from learning takedowns! Professor John Danaher explains why it’s time you start doing so:
“Takedowns have a great second function in Jiu-Jitsu as a means of reversing/sweeping opponents from guard position. They also chain together extremely well with classical Jiu-Jitsu sweeps; when the sweep fails, follow with a takedown to finish and get the score.”
Sure, you don’t need to spend too much time nor energy in becoming good at takedowns, as most points and submissions are scored on the ground… But even as someone who will pull guard, you need to aim for competence in takedowns:
If you want to become good at taking people down in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, then you don’t really “have” to learn complicated takedown setups. Rather, sometimes the easiest of takedowns are the simplest of takedowns.
For instance, the Lat Whip is a great takedown option. Erik Paulson demonstrates it on the video below:
Use Erik Paulson’s systematic approach to combination takedowns that ensure you are on top once the battle hits the floor.
- Dominate with tie-ups that keep your opponent off balance and unready to defend your offensive onslaught – once the fight hits the floor take control with crippling Catch Wrestling combos!
