by Great Grappling | Jan 16, 2014 | Uncategorized | 1 comment

In this video I show a way to escape the back position by keeping both arms tight and scooting away (or a version of a reverse shrimp).The first, and most important thing about this move, is that you protect that space under your armpits. I refer to the hand positioning as "Home Alone Hands" in the kids class and it just carried over into the adults. This is so important to this move that not only will you not be able to do it if they have a grip under your armpit, but attempting this move will probably get you armbarred if you try it when they have a hand on the lapel.If you do get a good defense going and they happened to set those hooks without under grips then it's important to dig your heels into the ground and pull your bottom away. Make sure to keep an even pulling motion away and avoid picking one side or the other. After you have moved away you will feel a binding pressure where your opponents legs are holding on. It is at this point where you choose a side to escape.Upon choosing your side you will make a reverse shrimp and take your shoulder to the floor. If you moved away first you will find that there is a perfect pocket to make the next transition.Once your shoulder has hit the floor it's time to bring your hand through and grip above the knee. This can be a very tricky transition and you should reference the video to see how I make this space. Notice how I grip above the knee with my elbow out at first then bring it in tightly. If done with a strong grip, above the knee, it will slightly straighten your partners knee, this is exactly what we are looking for.Now its time to clear your opponents other foot. Make sure you do not take your other hand and stuff the ankle, this is dangerous and leaves your neck AND hand exposed. As soon as your hand moves away from your body you'll either get Kimuraed, armbarred or choked…keep it in tight. Instead you should use your legs to clear that leg, sometimes it will be difficult, sometimes it will be hard. This will be dependent on what your opponent is doing. Regardless of their defense it is important that you clear the leg so you can belly flop on the leg.When you roll over on top of the leg you must be completely laying flat on the leg. that arm hugging above the knee will give some extra pressure but you can not get on your toes and try to drive in. This will give your opponents an opportunity to bring their leg back into the game and put you in an annoying guard. Instead it's important to slowly drag your body across the leg while keeping as much pressure as you can.Once you clear the leg you can use your hand that is closest to your opponent's head to grab inside their collar or grab their spare sleeve. While making this transition it's also important to keep your head turned towards the trunk of your opponent's body. You should be making slow progress towards the far hip of your opponent or he/she will push on your hear and try to stuff your head. Overall this can be a great technique but you must stay tight throughout. Keep in mind you're leaving a terrible position and the journey is dangerous! Like all your other moves it's important to practice these escapes so that the move is seamless and well executed!