BJJ Berimbolo: How to Invert and Take the Back
BJJBJJ App Team·⏱️ 1 min read·🔄 Mar 31, 2026
☰Contents
Learn the BJJ berimbolo: inversion mechanics, de la Riva grips and back take sequences.
Contents
What is the Berimbolo?
The berimbolo is a back-taking technique developed and popularized by the Miyao brothers and Cobrinha. It involves inverting from de la Riva guard to get underneath your opponent and emerge with their back.
Berimbolo Step by Step
- Establish de la Riva guard with far ankle grip
- Pull their foot across your centerline
- Create space, then invert toward your inside shoulder
- Roll under them as they rotate to defend
- Come up on their back with hooks in
⚠️ Important: The berimbolo requires significant hip flexibility and comfort inverting. Practice slow inversions before trying at speed.
Berimbolo vs. Back Take Direct
| Approach | When to Use | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Berimbolo | Opponent is base-heavy, doesn't move | Requires flexibility, vulnerable to leg locks |
| Direct Back Take | Opponent stands or steps away | Easier to counter if timed wrong |
💡 Pro Tip: The berimbolo works best when your opponent is static. If they start moving away, transition to a direct back take or sweep instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What guard do you use for the berimbolo?
The berimbolo typically starts from de la Riva guard. You use the de la Riva hook plus a far ankle grip to control the opponent's base before inverting.
How do I start inverting for the berimbolo?
From de la Riva, pull your opponent's leg across your body with the ankle grip, then invert by rolling toward your inside shoulder. The momentum carries you under and behind them.
Is the berimbolo legal in all BJJ competitions?
Yes, the berimbolo itself is legal. However, some competitions have restrictions on inverted positions in certain belt divisions — always check the specific ruleset.