Just as important as being able to defend strikes is the ability to shrug off take-downs, especially if your strength is in standup and you are faceing someone who’s strength is grappling.

With striking, learning to defend punches and kicks is much more technique then it is strength and conditioning. Things like speed, relfexes, and footwork are key components to avoid tasting leather or waking up with a shin indent on your forehead.

For defending take-downs, however, although a lot of it is technique, quickness, and timing, strength and conditioning is a very important factor.

If you have a strong core, powerful hips, and strong legs, you will be able to stuff take-downs and avoid being thrown off balance and dropped on the canvas with much more ease.

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