Getting ready for competition.

Today at open mat not many showed up just some getting ready for an upcoming competition.  For a couple it will be there first time to compete so I thought it was best to go over some things to calm them down and give them some confidence.   

I think you should always have a plan when you start a match and then make adjustments as the match goes on depending on how your opponent responds or reacts to what your doing.  As the match starts with a takedown you should always have in mind what you are going to do. Do you pull guard? Shoot a double or single leg? Go with a wrestling or judo throw?  If you know what you want you have the advantage.  Do you want to keep them from grabbing a sleeve or lapel?  It all depends on what your plan is.  Your plan should include a takedown that puts you into the position you want to be in once you get on the mat.  It is much easier to get to the position you want to be in during transition then letting your opponent get to a neutral position and starting from there.  

So we went over takedowns based on where they wanted to end up.  We will see what happens once the competition comes.