What is a Back Escape in BJJ?

A back escape is a fundamental technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that allows you to escape from your opponent’s back control. This position is one of the most dominant and dangerous positions in BJJ, as your opponent has access to numerous submissions, such as the rear-naked choke, and can control your movements. By learning how to perform a back escape, you can regain control of the situation and potentially work towards a better position or even a submission.

Create Space

The first step in performing a back escape is to create space between you and your opponent. To do this, you can use your elbows to push your opponent’s knees outwards, which will give you more room to maneuver. Alternatively, you can also use your legs to push against your opponent’s body and create space.

Move Your Hips

Once you have created space, the next step is to move your hips to one side. This movement will help you to get out from underneath your opponent and potentially create an opportunity to take their back or escape entirely. To do this, bring your knees up towards your chest, and rotate your hips to one side.

Shrimp Out

After you have moved your hips, the next step is to shrimp out. Shrimping is a fundamental movement in BJJ that allows you to move your body in a controlled and efficient manner. To shrimp out, move your hips away from your opponent while pushing off the ground with your feet.

Establish Guard

Once you have shrimped out, the next step is to establish guard. Guard is a position in BJJ where you use your legs to control your opponent and potentially set up submissions or sweeps. To establish guard, bring one leg over your opponent’s body and place it on their hip or shoulder. This leg will act as a barrier, preventing your opponent from regaining back control.

Hip Escape and Recover Guard

If your opponent manages to regain back control, the next step is to perform a hip escape and recover guard. To do this, move your hips to the side while pushing off the ground with your feet. This movement will allow you to create space between you and your opponent, giving you the opportunity to recover guard and potentially set up your own attacks.

Don’t Panic and Keep Moving

Finally, it’s essential to stay calm and keep moving when you are attempting a back escape. Your opponent will be trying to maintain control and potentially set up submissions, but by staying calm and focused, you can work towards a successful escape. Keep moving and looking for opportunities to escape or transition to a better position.