Escaping Back Control

Defense for BJJ Back Mount (Survive + Escape)

The defensive position in the back mount for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the person with someone on their back. In Jiu-Jitsu, as with all forms of grappling, this is considered the worst position that you can be in. Your opponent can easily control your body and work for a submission while you pose little threat in return.

Image Above: The gold-colored character represents the defensive position of the back mount position. The defensive player has their opponent's leg hooks around their hips. Their opponent controls the back with seatbelt control, having one arm above the shoulder and one arm below the shoulder.

1. Scoop Escape

YouTube Clip: Saulo Ribeiro

YouTube Clip: Saulo Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu Revolution 1 - The Back Position

Instructor: Saulo Ribeiro

Provided by: WorldMartialArts

Synopsis: Keep your butt and weight on the ground and off of your opponent. Engage your hamstrings to pull your butt down. This will lower you to a position that is harder for your opponent to attack you. From there kick off one hook and move your hips towards that same side. 

2. Seatbelt Control Escape

YouTube Video: Robin Gieseler

YouTube Video: Basic Back Mount Escape

Length: 3 Minutes 18 Seconds 

Instructor: Robin Gieseler

Provided by: Gracie Ohio Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Synopsis: For defensive hand placement - one hand should be as close to your opponent's wrist as possible; the other should be on their elbow. If you are on the strong side, pull your opponent's elbow over your head, put your head to the ground and turn your hips parallel to the ground. If you fall to the weak side, you may not have to pull your opponent's arm above your head, just get your head to the floor and turn your hips parallel to the ground.

3. Body Triangle Escape

YouTube Clip: Gordon Ryan

YouTube Clip: The Best Way to Escape the Body Triangle 

Instructor: Gordon Ryan

Provided By: Bernardo Faria BJJ Fanatics

Synopsis: To escape, you need to prevent the choke with one hand while simultaneously using your other hand and hip rotation to create the scenario where you can trap your opponent's ankle. From here, you will trap the foot with your secondary hand, which should create the opportunity to square your hips to the mat.