Explosive Power Meets Precision
The blast double takedown is a classic wrestling move that has proven to be just as deadly in MMA. If you’re looking to bring a serious wrestling-based strategy into your MMA arsenal, this technique is a game-changer. Its power and speed make it one of the hardest takedowns to defend against when performed correctly. But how do you set it up and execute it to perfection? Let’s break it down.
Setting the Scene for the Takedown
Like any successful attack in MMA, timing and setup are crucial. You don’t just rush in for the takedown; you need to lay the groundwork and create an opening for the blast double to hit its mark. Here’s how to prepare:
Choose the Right Stance
You want to be ready for anything, and that starts with a solid stance. A low stance allows you to react quickly and get the angles you need for a takedown. But don’t be too rigid; you need flexibility to move with fluidity when the moment comes.
Distract and Feint
The key to a successful blast double is getting your opponent to forget about it. Throw punches, kicks, and use feints to keep them guessing. The more your opponent expects a strike, the less they’ll expect you to shoot for the takedown.
Close the Gap
It’s all about getting close enough to reach your opponent’s legs without leaving them space to react. Throwing combinations will force your opponent to back up or defend, giving you the perfect opportunity to step in and secure the takedown.
The Science of the Blast Double: Getting in Position
Now that you’ve set the stage, it’s time to execute. The blast double requires explosive power, but it also needs precise mechanics to make it effective. Follow these steps to get it right:
Drop Low for Maximum Power
Dropping your level is the first step to any takedown, but with the blast double, it’s all about creating momentum. Lower your body by bending your knees and hips while keeping your back straight. The lower you get, the more explosive your shot will be.
Explode with the Penetration Step
This is where the magic happens. Push off your back foot, driving your lead foot between your opponent’s legs. You want to aim to get as deep as possible, essentially aiming to drive through them like a linebacker hitting a running back.
Position Your Head for Leverage
Once you’re in, your head placement is crucial. By driving your head into your opponent’s torso, you’ll help maintain alignment and add more power to your drive. The head needs to act as the guide to ensure everything stays on track.
Finishing Strong: Taking Control After the Takedown
Executing the blast double is just the beginning. Once you’ve got your opponent on the mat, you need to capitalize on your position and maintain control.
Secure the Legs for Control
After making contact with your opponent, reach for the back of their legs and pull them towards you. The goal here is to make sure they can’t recover easily or escape your control.
Drive Forward and Keep Moving
At this stage, you need to keep the pressure on. Push off with your legs, driving your opponent backward and downward. Your job is to make sure they stay on the ground, leaving them vulnerable to follow-up attacks.
Transition and Dominate
Once the takedown is complete, don’t just sit there. Look to control the position—whether that’s transitioning into side control or maintaining top position. From there, you can look for submissions, ground strikes, or transitions to even more dominant positions.
The Importance of Setup: Why the Blast Double Works
What makes the blast double so effective in MMA is its surprise factor. When executed right, it leaves your opponent no time to react. The setup and execution require timing, patience, and skill, but when you pull it off, it can completely shift the momentum of a fight. Using strikes, feints, and clever positioning can make the difference between a failed takedown and a takedown that sends your opponent crashing to the canvas.
