BJJ Turtle Position: Attacks and Defense
BJJBJJ App Team·⏱️ 1 min read·🔄 Mar 31, 2026
☰Contents
Master BJJ turtle position: how to attack it with chokes and back takes, and how to escape.
Contents
Understanding the Turtle Position
The turtle position is common in BJJ — it appears after failed takedowns, during guard passes, and as a defensive position to prevent the back being taken. Knowing how to attack it and escape it is essential at every level.
Taking the Back from Turtle
- Establish the seatbelt (over-under grip around torso)
- Insert bottom hook — your lower leg hooks their near thigh
- Roll to your back, dragging them on top
- Insert top hook to complete the back position
- Finish with a rear naked choke or bow-and-arrow
Attacks on the Turtle
| Attack | Entry | Submission |
|---|---|---|
| Seatbelt Back Take | Insert seatbelt, roll | Rear naked choke |
| Arm Triangle | Head and arm trap from the side | Arm triangle choke |
| Clock Choke | Grip collar from the side | Clock choke (kata gatame) |
💡 Pro Tip: From turtle, the seat belt must come before the hooks. If you try to insert hooks before the seatbelt, they can easily roll and escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the turtle position?
The turtle position is when a grappler is on all fours with their head down, protecting against takedowns or guard passes. It's a defensive position that also creates back take opportunities for the top player.
How do I take the back from turtle?
Insert a seatbelt grip (over-under around their torso), then insert one hook, then roll them to their back and insert the second hook. The key is controlling the seatbelt before attempting to insert hooks.
How do I escape the turtle position?
The main escapes are: sit-out (stand to the side away from pressure), granby roll (invert to guard), and stand-up. Choose based on where your opponent's weight is distributed.