# What is a sprawl?

A sprawl defends takedowns by shooting your legs back and driving your hips down onto your opponent's upper back. It stops their forward momentum and puts you in a dominant position. Sprawling is fundamental wrestling defense that every grappler needs.

**[Read full answer on BJJ Notes](https://www.bjjnotes.app/knowledge-base/what-is-a-sprawl)**

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**Tags:** technique, self-defense

**Source:** [BJJ Notes Knowledge Base](https://www.bjjnotes.app/knowledge-base/what-is-a-sprawl)