GROUND DEFENSES

Introduction

In the next few issues/months there will be a series of techniques on the ground. Obviously the first thing to be said is that from a self defense point of view you should avoid going down to the ground if at all possible. However, it can happen and so we should train for it. In the following techniques I will start with the defender (that's you) lying on the ground flat on his back (i.e. the prone position), but there will be a number of different attacking positions.

There are a couple of things to note about ground fighting (apart from the fact that gravity works in a different direction when you are flat on your back). The first is that just because you are facing a different direction does not mean that you can not use strikes and much of the good stuff you have learnt when standing on your feet. It sounds obvious but sometimes people forget it. But you do have to be aware that you are working at a much closer range and so there is less room. Secondly, size does matter. Strength, weight, body shape and the length of limbs will all change the way techniques need to be applied and so the best thing to do is train with lots of different people. However, you can still beat the unsuspecting big guy, so don't give up. The focus here will be on the core technique, so remember that additional strikes should be added.

1  Approaching From The Feet – Take Down Using Legs

The attacker is standing at your feet while you are in the prone position on the ground. Once your opponent is close enough turn slightly on to your left side and hook your left foot round behind the heel of his left foot (this will stop him from stepping back). At the same time raise your right foot and place it on his left leg just under his knee (Figure 1). Note that your toes of both feet should be pointing inwards to your left. Once your foot makes contact keep pushing as hard as you can with your right foot and pull with your left. Since he can not step back he will fall over (Figure 2). I'm not sure if it needs to be stated (but I will anyway), this assumes that the attacker's left leg is easier to get to, obviously if his right leg is in easier reach then go for that leg and adjust the instructions above accordingly. The other really obvious thing to point out is that in a real self defense situation you can place your right foot on his knee with as much energy and enthusiasm as you like. In training, however, take a little more care (remember your partners turn is next).

Fig 1. 'Take Hold' of Your Opponent

Fig 2. Take Your Opponent Down

Fig 3. Axe Kick To The Knee

Fig 4. Stamping Kick to the Groin

Once he has hit the floor shuffle forwards to close the gap, if necessary, so that you can finish the technique. You now have a number of options, for example, (a) if your left leg is still under his heel then his leg is suspended off the ground and you can do an axe kick on to his knee with your right leg (Figure 3), or (b) you can execute a stamping kick to his groin, with your right foot (Figure 4). Hey, why not go wild - do both! Note that this technique works from the inside (ie. Toes pointing out) as well as from the outside (ie. Toes pointing in).

YDJ Graham Salt