Ankle Pick Setup: Advanced Takedown from Foot Control

Updated March 2025 • 5 min read

Understanding the Ankle Pick

The ankle pick is a takedown that attacks your opponent's base by controlling one of their feet. By lifting and disrupting their ankle and leg, you can successfully take them down without the large-scale leg attacks of double or single leg takedowns.

Setting Up the Ankle Pick

Creating Upper Body Control

Before attacking the ankle, establish strong control of your opponent's upper body. Use collar ties, arm drags, or other control methods to prevent them from defending effectively.

Positioning for the Attack

Position yourself on the side of the leg you want to attack. Your opposite side arm should be controlling their upper body while your near-side arm reaches for the ankle.

Foot Grip

Grip their ankle firmly with your hand placed under the foot, controlling the heel. This grip allows you to lift and disrupt their balance.

Disrupting Balance

The Lift

Once you have the ankle grip, lift their leg explosively while simultaneously driving into them with your upper body. This lift-and-drive combination disrupts their balance and puts them on the ground.

Timing

Execute the ankle pick when your opponent is committed to standing. If they're already falling backward or adjusting their weight, the technique becomes less effective.

Variations

Inside Ankle Pick

Attack the inside of their ankle for a different angle. This variation can be effective when the standard ankle pick is being defended.

Outside Ankle Pick

Attack from the outside of their leg. This variation uses different angles and can catch opponents defending against the inside variation.