Strikes to Clinch (diary entry)

21.12.16 Tonight we specifically looked at the clinch range, combining strikes with throws. However, prior to this we had a complete MMA warm-up going through all ranges. We began with a progressive series of mobility exercises – quadruped shoulder rolls, cat stretch, Indian press-up, squat thrust and Indian squats. This was followed by footwork and stand-up combinations. We looked at attacking the lead leg. We did some clinch drills such as under-hook pummelling and arm-drags.  Next we drilled the three ranges of guard on the ground – long, mid and close – using various muscle memory exercises. We then moved back to stand-up, using strikes to set up for possible takedowns. We worked on the following: Jab/cross/major hip throw Jab/cross/counter-grab/shoulder throw Jab/cross/counter-grab/arm-drag/rear waist-lock takedown Jab/double-leg takedown Jab/cross/low round kick/single-leg takedown