Takedowns For The Rest of Us by Michael Heinz

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What will You Learn?

Realistic Takedowns for Real People

Tired of pulling guard because you think takedowns aren't for you? Takedowns For The Rest of Us is the beginner-friendly guide to finally getting confident on your feet—without needing to be a wrestler, athlete, or acrobat.

BJJ black belt Michael Heinz breaks down a practical, high-percentage system of takedowns designed for everyday practitioners. Whether you're older, less flexible, or just new to stand-up grappling, this instructional gives you the tools to take the fight to the ground safely and efficiently—no athletic background required.

If you've ever thought, “I’ll just sit guard, it’s safer,” this series will show you a better way—one that works for hobbyists, competitors, and anyone who trains jiu-jitsu as a martial art.

🔑 What You’ll Learn:

• A Complete Beginner’s Approach: No prior wrestling or judo needed—just step-by-step instruction geared toward BJJ practitioners of all levels.

• Stand-Up Grappling Without the Scramble: Techniques that don’t rely on speed, power, or explosive movement.

• Grip Fighting Fundamentals: Learn how to control the fight before the takedown even starts.

• High-Percentage Entries: Simple setups that actually work in live rolling against resisting opponents.

• Clinching for Control: Discover how to close distance and dominate the tie-ups, even if you're not the stronger athlete.

• Low-Risk Finishes: Focus on techniques that keep you safe and in control—like trips, body locks, and sacrifice throws.

• Self-Defense Crossover: Takedowns that translate well to real-world situations.

✅ Why This Series Is Different:

• No Wrestling Experience Needed – Everything is built from the ground up for BJJ beginners.

• No Gymnastics Required – No diving shots, spinning grips, or flying techniques.

• No Strength or Speed Assumptions – Designed for average people who want consistent results, not highlight reels.

• Built for BJJ Context – Every technique transitions smoothly into ground control or submission opportunities.

Take the fear out of takedowns and make standing up a weapon, not a liability. Takedowns For The Rest of Us is the system you’ve been waiting for—accessible, effective, and built for how real people train.

What Exactly do You Get?

Part 1

• The Problem With The Standing Position In BJJ - Introduction To The Course
• Introduction To The Coach
• The Only Way To Never Be Taken Down
• Overcoming The Fear Of The Takedown
• The Methodology For This Series: Structure, Connection, Timing
• The I Method: Introduction, Isolation, Integration
• What Is Spazzing?
• Fundamental Standing Structure For Defense And Offense
• Relating Standing To Guard Passing
• The 3 Directional Hierarchy For Standing Offense
• Don’t Be Homeless On Your Way To The Dream House

Part 2

• The Drag - Arm Drag Structure And Connection - Wrist Climb
• Arm Drag Target 1 - Far Iliac Hip Crest
• Drilling Target 1
• Arm Drag Target 2 - Leg
• Drilling Target 2
• Arm Drag Target 3 - Uke Waza
• Drilling Target 3
• Russian Ties As Arm Drags
• Common Reaction To The Russian Tie 1 - Arm Rip
• Common Reaction To The Russian Tie 2 - Face Push
• Common Reaction To The Russian Tie 3 - Miscellaneous
• Drilling 3 Russian Tie Reactions
• Takedown From Behind 1 - Naughty List
• Takedown From Behind 2 - Double Leg
• Takedown From Behind 3 - Rag Doll / Forward Tilt
• Drilling Takedowns From Behind

Part 3

• The Snap - The Hip Back Reaction And Snap Mechanics
• Sprawl VS Invisible Chair
• Reactions To The Snap
• Snap Attack 1 - Drag/Cradle To Drop
• Snap Attack 2 - Guillotine
• Snap Attack 3 - Cow Catcher
• Drilling Snap Attacks

Part 4

• The Inside - Use Your Head
• Thumb Blocks
• Underhook Mechanics: Push, Pull, Sag
• Inside Reaction 1 - Hip Back To Snap
• Inside Reaction 2 - Whizzer Vs Guillotine O’clock
• Inside Reaction 3 - Hasty Pummel To Drag/Russian
• Drilling Inside Reactions
• Inside Attack 1 - Body Fold
• Inside Attack 2 - Single Leg
• Inside Attack 3 - Lazy Shot
• Single Leg Finish 1 - Outside Trip To Side Control
• Single Leg Finish 2 - Running The Pipe To Over Under
• Single Leg Finish 3 - To The Back

Part 5

• Defense - Don’t Mirror Your Opponent
• When In Doubt: Sag
• Collar Tie
• Push
• Wrist
• Underhook Defense Part 1: Where’s Your Head
• Underhook Defense Part 2: The Creepy Epstein
• Shot At Distance
• Inside Single Leg Defense 1
• Outside Single Leg

Part 6

• Extended Gi Grips - Same Side Lapel Outside Counter
• Same Side Lapel Inside Counter
• Cross Lapel Counter
• Outro