Sprawl (grappling)

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The position after sprawling. For further defense against repetitive takedown attempts the top wrestler can scoot his legs away from the opponent and hips downwards.

A sprawl is a martial arts and especially wrestling term for a defensive technique that is done in response to certain takedown attempts, typically double or single leg takedown attempts. The sprawl is performed by scooting the legs backwards, so as to land on the upper back of the opponent attempting the takedown. The resultant position is also known as a sprawl or sprawling position.

Ideally, the sprawling athlete should arch his back as much as possible and keep his knees off the mat. His options here including attempting to gain leverage on the lower back by hooking underneath the elbows; throwing in a headlock; and grabbing his opponent's ankles and trying to get behind his opponent.

In mixed martial arts, sprawling is an important aspect of the sprawl and brawl tactic.