Get the Position, then Break the Structure

So you want to do a throw or a takedown? Easy. First, get in a good position, then break your partner’s structure.
Okay, so it’s not really that easy, but it can be helpful to have a general sense of how to do something. It can also be helpful to know how not to do something. For instance, if you try to take someone down with you are in a neutral position (you have no advantage) and they are in a strong stance, you had better hope that they are much smaller and much slower than you.
So what’s an example of a good position? The back. If you can maneuver yourself behind your partner, you are in a better position than they are. Their arms are facing the wrong way to attack you. Your arms can work to control them. Still, just because you have a good position doesn’t mean you automatically win. If your partner still has a strong stance, it’s not time to throw them yet.
Instead, it’s time to compromise their structure. One way to do that is to push forward on them. If they do nothing, they will fall over. If they resist exactly the right amount and keep a good stance, be patient – don’t attempt a takedown. However, if they push back too strongly (which many inexperienced players do), then it’s time to take them to the ground.
Today in kids class we practiced just that – getting behind our partners, pushing on them, provoking a reaction, and then using a foot sweep to seal the deal.
Tomorrow we might teach the same thing to adults. Why not? The concepts and the techniques are exactly the same.