BJJ Escapes From Bad Positions: Side Control, Mount & Back | BJJ App Wiki
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Master BJJ escapes from side control, mount and back control with step-by-step techniques for every level.
Master BJJ escapes from side control, mount and back control with step-by-step techniques for every level.
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Getting stuck under side control, mount, or back control is inevitable in BJJ. Having reliable escapes transforms these situations from panic-inducing to manageable.
Side Control Escapes
- Elbow-knee escape: Frame across hips, shrimp to create space, insert knee, re-guard.
- Granby roll: Invert under pressure to recover guard or take turtle.
- Underhook escape: Fight for underhook, come to knees, take shots.
Mount Escapes
- Upa (bridge & roll): Trap arm and leg, bridge explosively, roll to guard.
- Elbow-knee escape: Create space by framing knee, shrimp out, recover half or full guard.
- Technical stand-up: Post, clear the leg, stand to wrestling range.
Back Control Escapes
- Seat-belt strip: Two-on-one the choking arm, turn in to face the opponent.
- Chin-pull defense: Tuck chin, hands in, rotate hips to the mat.
- Body triangle escape: Foot-lock the crossed ankle, then strip the seat-belt.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Common Mistakes in Escapes From Bad Positions
Sitting Too High
Mounting high on the chest gives your partner room to bridge and roll. Sit low — hips near the belt line — and sprawl your weight through your knees.
Reaching Forward Too Early
Leaning forward to grab the collar before establishing hooks invites the upa escape. Secure weight distribution before attacking.
Neglecting Hip Control
Without controlling the hips through knee pressure and foot hooks, escapes become trivially easy. Drive knees inward and maintain active pressure.
Abandoning Base
Losing base while attacking submissions allows reversals. Keep your base wide, weight centered, and never over-commit to a single attack.
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More Questions
What is the most important thing to remember when escaping a bad position in BJJ?
Always focus on creating space and improving your position, even if it's just a small step. Don't get discouraged; consistent effort is key to escaping.
How can I prevent myself from getting stuck in bad positions?
Good defense and posture are crucial. Learn to recognize when you're in danger and actively work to maintain a strong base and prevent your opponent from establishing dominant control.
What are some common mistakes beginners make when trying to escape?
A common mistake is panicking and flailing, which often leads to giving up more advantageous positions. Another is not understanding the concept of 'hip escape' or 'shrimping' to create space.