Legs-In Riding Continuation Drill
Top Control
Legend
- player
- movement path
How it works
Develop the ability to insert and maintain legs-in (ride legs) position on a moving opponent, building the core and hip strength needed for sustained riding.
What you need
- wrestling mat
Your focus
Riding legs is one of the most effective top control tools in wrestling, but it requires the physical ability to maintain the position against an actively resisting opponent. This drill trains the insertion mechanics and the sustained hip pressure needed to keep legs in against resistance. Wrestlers who can ride legs effectively neutralize the stand-up escape and create consistent pinning opportunities.
Top wrestler starts in a flat position on a bottom wrestler with one leg inserted (hook in) from the side.
On the coach's signal, top inserts the second leg and begins riding both legs, controlling the bottom wrestler's hips.
Bottom wrestler tries to kick legs out and stand up while top maintains the ride for 30 seconds.
Debrief after each round: did top maintain hip pressure? Did legs stay in or get kicked out? Repeat 4-5 rounds.
Goal
Success is keeping legs-in for a full 30 seconds on a partner who's trying to stand up, your legs stay locked and your hips stay heavy.
Helpful cues
- Drive your hips down into their hips, not just your legs
- Cross your ankles when legs are fully in to maximize control
- Move with your opponent, don't lock up and get stuck
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Start with only one leg in and practice maintaining that position before progressing to both legs.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Bottom wrestler is permitted to sit back and attempt to roll the top wrestler, requiring top to adjust and maintain control in a more dynamic environment.No account needed
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