BJJ Back Takes: How to Get to the Back from Every Position

Contents

Why Back Control is the Highest-Value Position

Back control scores maximum points (4) and is the position from which the rear naked choke — the highest-percentage submission in BJJ — is finished. Most high-level BJJ game plans build toward back control because opponents must choose between defending submissions and escaping position; they cannot do both effectively.

Back Takes from Turtle

Gift Wrap Truck Back Take

From behind turtle: arm around neck (no choke yet), other arm under arm, lift opponent's far arm up and behind their back (gift wrap), take the back from there. Excellent when opponent defends with arms flat.

Clock Choke / Back Exposure

Circle around turtle opponent, threaten clock choke from the side. As they defend, they often expose their back. Transition immediately when the back appears.

Back Takes from Guard

Triangle-to-Back

From failed triangle: as opponent postures out, use the angle to swing to the back, maintaining leg control. High percentage when triangle is defended by posturing up.

Arm Drag to Back

From open guard: grip opponent's wrist, arm drag to expose their armpit, swing around to the back while keeping wrist control. Classic back take used at all levels.

Hook Placement and Control

Both hooks in (heels inside thighs), seat belt grip (over-under control of torso). Keep the back flat — do not sit back. Weight forward drives them into your hooks and makes escape harder.

💡 Back control principle: Protect the neck first. Seat belt grip with the top arm protecting your own neck (arm over shoulder) prevents them from pulling your hand off to defend choke.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best submission from the back?

Rear naked choke (RNC) is the highest-percentage submission from back control. It requires no gi, works in all rulesets, and is difficult to defend once properly set up. Learn to set up the RNC before working other chokes (bow and arrow, cross collar).

How do I stop people from escaping my back control?

Keep the body triangle as a backup to hooks. Also, stay active — constantly adjusting grip and threatening submissions prevents your opponent from focusing entirely on escape. Static back control is the easiest to escape.

How do I get better at taking the back in scrambles?

Study the two-on-one (Russian tie) and the arm drag — both are back take entries that work in scrambles. Positional drilling: start in open guard, your goal is to take the back. Your partner's goal is to prevent it. 5-minute rounds.