Pummeling is how you fight for underhooks, and underhooks win a huge number of positions in jiu-jitsu, wrestling and self-defense. Here's a look at the pummel drill from an adult class at Mindset Martial Arts & Fitness in Hayward.
What Is Pummeling?
Pummeling is a standing drill where two partners face each other and take turns swimming their arms inside to win the underhook. It builds the hand-fighting, balance and body awareness you need for takedowns and clinch work.
Why Underhooks Matter
- An underhook lets you control your opponent's posture and get to their back.
- It sets up takedowns and protects you from being taken down.
- On the ground, the same idea helps you escape and come up on top.
When You Get Caught
In the video, the coach shows what to do when your partner controls you and starts to stretch you back. Your last resort is to get one arm under and get your hips down and back. If your posture breaks, you'll fall. Keep your elbows in so your partner can't get both arms around you.
Train It Live
After drilling, partners go live in short rounds, like 10 to 20 seconds, fighting for the underhook. Rotate partners and keep it under control so nobody crashes into each other.
Want to finish the takedown? See our ankle pick takedown and double leg takedown practice.
Train BJJ in Hayward
Mindset Martial Arts & Fitness is at 24249 Hesperian Blvd in Hayward, CA, next to Southland Mall, and has been teaching in Hayward for about 16 years. We're a short drive from San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Castro Valley and Union City. Our adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes are beginner-friendly, and we also offer kids BJJ and fitness kickboxing.
Check the class schedule or reserve your first class.
BusinessRate collected 43 recent Google reviews averaging a 5.0 rating with 4 reviews in the last 90 days averaging a 5.0 rating. The BusinessRate score is calculated at 5.00. This martial arts school is currently ranked #1 in Hayward, CA.