Rear Takedown - US Army Combatives Technique

This page focuses on the "Rear Takedown" technique used in US Army Modern Combatives training. This technique is used when you find yourself behind your opponent.

For more unarmed self-defense techniques, please visit the main US Army Combatives section.

Technique Instructions

• Frequently, you will end up after the clinch with your head behind the enemy’s arm. When this happens, you grasp your hands together around his waist by interlocking your fingers, and place your forehead in the middle of the small of his back to avoid strikes. From this secure position, you can attempt to take the enemy down. (Figure 5-15)
• Step 1 (Figure 5-16). Step to one side so that you are behind the enemy at an angle.
• Step 2 (Figure 5-17). With the leg that is behind the enemy, reach out and place the instep of your foot behind the enemy’s far side foot so that he cannot step backward. Sit down as close to your other foot as possible and hang your weight from the enemy’s waist.
• Step 3 (Figure 5-18). The enemy will fall backwards over your extended leg. As he does so, tuck your elbow in to avoid falling on it, and rotate up into the mounted position.

Reference Sources

1. Information from Public Domain Document, Combatives - FM 3-25.150 (FM 21-150), http://sill-www.army.mil/428thfa/FM%203-25.150%20%28Combatives%29.pdf, Added - 06/30/15