Single Leg Takedown
Also known as: Single Leg, High Single
The single leg is perhaps the most useful takedown for BJJ because it presents lower risk than the double leg and works from more positions. You attack one of their legs, lifting it off the ground to destroy their base. The key is securing the leg to your chest, then using various finishes depending on their reaction.
🎯Key Details
Level change
Bend your knees to change levels—don't just bend at the waist. Good level change = their leg is at your chest height.
Penetration step
Your lead leg steps deep between their feet. This gets you close enough to secure the leg.
Lock the leg to your chest
Grab around the leg and pin it to your chest. Their leg becomes your steering wheel.
Head position inside
Your head goes on the inside (against their hip). Outside head position = guillotine territory.
Multiple finishes
Run the pipe (trip), sweep single (elevate), cut the corner, dump them backward—have options.
⚠️Common Mistakes
Head outside
Keep your head on the inside against their hip. Outside = guillotine or sprawl.
Bending at waist only
Level change with your legs. Waist bending = your head is down and vulnerable.
Staying bent over
After securing the leg, posture up and lift. Staying hunched lets them sprawl.
No penetration step
Step deep between their feet. Shooting from too far = they stuff it.
🚀Setups
- •Off a collar tie
- •After an arm drag
- •From 2-on-1 grip
- •Counter to their offense
🛡️Counters / Defenses
- •Sprawl
- •Whizzer and crossface
- •Guillotine (if head outside)
- •Limp leg
🔄Variations
📍Applicable Positions
🔗Related Techniques
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