Turtle Escape Guide
☰Contents
BJJ turtle escape guide — granby roll, sit out, stand up, Peterson roll, and recovering guard from turtle position.
Escaping from turtle position is crucial because staying too long invites back takes and chokes. Multiple escape options exist — the right choice depends on where your opponent is positioned.
Granby Roll (Shoulder Roll)
Setup
Place one hand flat on the mat for the roll direction. Tuck your chin and roll over that shoulder as your opponent reaches for seat belt.
Execution
Roll onto your back, extend your legs up, and continue rotating to recover guard position. Time this to their forward pressure or seat belt attempt.
Sit Out
When to Use
When they're directly behind you (not at the side). Shoot one leg under your body and sit through to face them. Creates scramble situations and single leg opportunities.
Technical Stand Up from Turtle
Base and Timing
Post one hand and one foot, then explosively stand while protecting against their takedown attempts. Best when they loosen control to reposition.
Peterson Roll
When They Have Seat Belt
When they have seat belt, roll INTO them rather than away. Reach across their body with your top arm, bridge, and roll them over you for a reversal.
Recovery Priority
- Prevent seat belt from being established (highest priority)
- Granby roll to guard
- Sit out to scramble
- Stand up (highest risk, highest reward)