BJJ Back Escape System: Surviving and Escaping Back Control

Learn systematic approaches to escaping back control in BJJ, including the roll-over escape, the hip-down method, and protecting against chokes.

Understanding Back Control

Back control is widely considered the most dominant position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Your opponent has hooks in, a seatbelt grip, and can attack your neck from multiple angles. Escaping requires understanding what makes back control dangerous, then systematically dismantling those threats.

The Priority Framework

Before attempting any escape, establish your priority order: 1. Protect your neck, 2. Remove the hooks, 3. Work to get to your side. Most people fail at back escapes because they try to escape before properly protecting their neck. Chin tucked, hands guarding your collar, elbows defending against arm-under attacks—these are non-negotiable.

The Roll-Over Escape

The roll-over or bridge escape works when your opponent has you flat. Bridge explosively to your weak side (the side where their top arm is over your shoulder), creating space as you roll. Timing is critical—you need to initiate before they can react and re-hook. The moment you bridge and create space, your hip must drop and your legs must work to begin the re-guard.

The Sit-Up Escape

When your opponent flattens you and prevents bridging, use the sit-up escape. Post on your elbow, drive your weight to your hip, and work to face your opponent. The key is managing their hands—if they have a collar grip, use your chin and shoulder to prevent them from sliding it deep. Once you're on your side facing them, work to create guard.

Protecting Against the Rear Naked Choke

The rear naked choke is the primary threat. Defense begins with a two-handed chin-tuck: both hands grip your collar or create a frame against the choking arm. Fight the choking arm by stacking your elbow on their elbow and walking their arm down your chest. Simultaneously work your hip escape to create positional relief.

Advanced: The Granby Roll Counter

If your opponent flattens you completely and you cannot bridge, consider the Granby roll. Invert by rolling over your shoulder toward the side their legs are on, turning your hips and working to come out the back. This requires flexibility and precise timing but can be highly effective when other escapes are stalled.