Let’s be real: standing exchanges are where a lot of modern grapplers struggle. BJJ might be king on the ground, but if you can’t get there, what’s the point? That’s why a lot of fighters borrow moves from wrestling and judo, tweaking them to fit our game. The ankle pick takedown is one tailor-made for BJJ because of its low risk and high reward.
Whether you’re repping gi or no-gi, the ankle pick is all about breaking your opponent’s base and putting them on their back—exactly where you want them.
Step-By-Step Guide: How to Do Ankle Pick
- Start by creating a strong connection with your opponent. In gi, this might mean gripping the collar or sleeve, while in no-gi, it could mean controlling behind the head or arm. Once you’ve established your grip, use your head to disrupt their posture by positioning it under their chin or against their shoulder.
- With one hand controlling, use the other to position yourself for the attack. Drop your level by bending your knees and staying low, using the mat for leverage.
- Once your opponent is unbalanced, it’s time to commit. Step forward and drive your body weight into them, using your head to further disrupt their balance.
- With their base compromised, grab the ankle firmly, just above the foot. As you drive forward, pull the ankle toward you in one smooth motion to take away their balance completely, sending them to the mat.
- As soon as your opponent hits the ground, stay tight and move into side control, knee-on-belly, or a submission.
Ankle Pick Variations
Cross Ankle Pick
This sneaky move disrupts your opponent’s base by attacking the opposite side. Instead of targeting the ankle on the same side as your grip, you reach across to grab the far ankle. This is particularly useful when your opponent’s stance is staggered, as it exploits their weight distribution and leaves them with no base to stand on.
Ankle Pick from Russian Tie
From the Russian tie, control your opponent’s arm with a dominant grip, locking them into position. Apply pressure on their arm to drag them down, disrupting their posture and forcing them to step forward. As soon as their far leg steps into range, shoot for the ankle, drive forward, and use your weight and momentum to complete the takedown.
Defending Against an Ankle Pick
Proper Stance and Foot Positioning
Keep your stance low, balanced, and active. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, with your lead leg slightly forward but not overcommitted, so it’s harder for your opponent to isolate one of your legs. Stay upright and keep your weight distributed evenly to prevent your opponent from unbalancing you.
Break Grips or Maintain Distance
If they establish a grip on your collar, sleeve, or head, use two hands to peel off their grip, or use your own movement to circle away and create angles. Keep your feet active and use lateral movement to stay out of range. If they try to close the distance, frame with your hands to create space and disrupt their timing.
Anticipate the Setup
Pay attention to your opponent’s body language. Are they dropping their level? Is their grip getting tighter? Recognizing these cues gives you the chance to sprawl or step back before they commit to the attack.
Training Drills for Mastering the Ankle Pick
Partnered repetitions are key to developing muscle memory and refining the mechanics of the ankle pick. Drill the move step by step, starting slow and focusing on fluid transitions and smooth execution. Alternate with your partner, so you can both practice maintaining good defense while sharpening your offense.
Drill the setup and finish by practicing creating openings with head positioning and grip control. Work on disrupting your partner’s posture and forcing them to shift their weight.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- A solid grip is essential, but overcommitting to it can work against you. If you’re too focused on holding your opponent, you may forget to adjust your positioning or fail to capitalize on openings.
- If you overextend or lean too far forward, you might find yourself sprawled out and on the defensive. Always stay grounded, keep your weight centered, and use your legs to generate power, not your upper body.
- Gripping too high on the shin or too loosely allows your opponent to escape or counter. Grab just above the foot and keep your grip tight. Once you’ve secured the ankle, commit to the motion—don’t hesitate.
- Head positioning is one of the most overlooked aspects of the ankle pick, but it’s critical for breaking your opponent’s balance. Without proper head placement—under the chin, against the shoulder, or driving into their body—you lose the leverage needed to disrupt their base.
Wrapping It All Up
Mastering the ankle pick isn’t just about learning a takedown—it’s about elevating your standing game and gaining the confidence to take the fight where you want it. Drill it, refine it, and make it your own. When executed correctly, the ankle pick is a tool that can give you a distinct advantage on the mats, whether you’re in the gym or competing at the highest level.