Practised our top two "favourite takedowns" today. This was a good time to consolidate what we've learnt and start applying it to everyday wrestling. The reason I asked for 2 types of takedowns was so that we could use one to set up the other. Make your opponent defend one of the takedowns and switch to the other if you can't get the first one.

Of course, we should know more than just 2 techniques. The theme, however, is the same. No matter how many techniques you know, it is always about using the setups for one technique to open up possibilities for another technique. This concept of giving yourself options against your opponent really shows how important it is to link setups with takedowns. It is the setup that gives you options. For example, a 2-on-1 armlock can be used to setup a single leg, but if the opponent fights it, you can push the arm away and shoot a double leg. Similarly, an inside tie (your hand on the inside controlling opponent's bicep) can be used to setup a duckunder, or pulled across to setup a sweep single to the opposite side.

We continued with practising sprawls and overhooks/whizzers. If your opponent is trying to go around behind you while you sprawl, use the whizzer to extend him forward and block his attempts to get behind. If your opponent hangs on and tries to drive straight through your sprawl, use the whizzer to pull your opponent up, get your hips in close to his and whip toss them to the mat for a pin.

Finally, I was very happy with the sparring today. I really think everyone in the class is getting the concept of push-pull-lateral movement. We've learnt several good setups, but we need to use them together continuously. Don't just hang onto one setup if it is not working. Pull the head with a snap, or push it to get an angle. Drag the arm and move laterally to create opportunities to attack. This is what the push-pull concept is all about. Use all the setups we've learnt to continuously off balance your opponent so you can attack.

As for myself, I got to wrestle with everyone today. I've also started to notice a few problems with some of my own techniques. My gut wrench is getting a bit sloppy and I'm not driving enough with my feet to gain leverage for the turn. Same with my ankle lace. I need to get off my knees and apply more pressure on my opponent's back. I've been watching this video to try and help solve my technique problems with the ankle lace.