BJJ Back Attacks Complete Guide | BJJ App Wiki
☰Contents
- Why Back Control Is the Highest-Value Position
- Taking the Back: Entry Methods
- From Guard (Bottom)
- From Top Positions
- From Standing
- Back Control: Maintaining the Position
- Finishing from Back Control
- Rear Naked Choke (RNC)
- Bow and Arrow Choke (Gi Only)
- Armbar from Back
- Common Back Control Mistakes
- Frequently Asked Questions
Master BJJ back attacks: how to take the back, maintain back control, and finish with RNC, bow and arrow, and more. The highest-value position in BJJ.
Master BJJ back attacks: how to take the back, maintain back control, and finish with RNC, bow and arrow, and more. The highest-value position in BJJ.
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Why Back Control Is the Highest-Value Position
The back is BJJ's most dominant position. From back control, you have access to the highest-percentage finishes in the sport (RNC, bow and arrow), your opponent has extremely limited defensive options, and the position scores maximum points (4) in competition.
Taking the Back: Entry Methods
From Guard (Bottom)
- Butterfly guard back take: Underhook → rotate to single leg X → back take
- Armbar to back take: Failed armbar → they roll → follow with both hooks
- Triangle to back take: They stack → overhook arm → rotate to back
From Top Positions
- Guard pass to back: Leg drag → land on back
- Turtle attack: They turtle → clock choke setup OR spin to back
- Half guard back take: Underhook half guard → roll to back
From Standing
- Snap down → spin behind
- Duck under to back
- Reactive: opponent shoots → sprawl → back take
Back Control: Maintaining the Position
| Concept | Detail |
|---|---|
| Hook placement | Hooks go INSIDE the hip flexors, not on the thighs. Two hooks = maximum control. |
| Seatbelt grip | One arm over shoulder, one arm under armpit. The overarm controls the choke. |
| Hip alignment | Stay tight to their back — no gap. They escape when you lose hip contact. |
| The back staying on the mat rule | Don't let your back touch the mat — you lose points in competition. Stay on your side. |
Finishing from Back Control
Rear Naked Choke (RNC)
The highest-percentage finish in BJJ/MMA. Slide the choking arm under the chin, lock the other arm behind their head, squeeze. Enter from the seatbelt by "slipping" the top arm under the chin as they lower their chin to defend.
Bow and Arrow Choke (Gi Only)
Control the collar with one hand, hook their leg with the other, then "bow and arrow" your body away. One of the tightest chokes in gi BJJ — extremely hard to escape once properly set.
Armbar from Back
When they reach back to defend, control the wrist, insert your leg over their shoulder, and extend. This is the primary "punishment" for reaching back to defend the choke.
Common Back Control Mistakes
- Placing hooks on thighs instead of hip flexors — they can step over your hooks
- Not staying tight — any gap allows hip escape entries
- Choking with the wrong arm — the choking arm should be the TOP (overarm) arm
- Staying flat on your back — this gives them leverage to peel hooks
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I transition between different back attacks if my first attempt is defended?
Effective back attackers maintain a constant pressure and flow. If a choke is defended, immediately look to transition to a body triangle or a different choke setup, using your hooks to control their hips and prevent escape. The key is to always have a follow-up plan.
What are the most common mistakes beginners make when attacking the back?
Common mistakes include losing hooks, giving up dominant positioning by chasing the submission too aggressively, and not controlling the opponent's posture. Always prioritize maintaining control of the back before attempting a submission.
How can I improve my grip fighting and control on the back?
Focus on securing strong seatbelt grips and controlling their shoulders. Work on framing with your arms to prevent them from turning into you or escaping your hooks. Drilling grip transitions and maintaining positional integrity is crucial.