Breaking Free: A Guide to Mastering the Triangle Escape in BJJ

Performing an effective triangle escape is an essential skill for any Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner. The triangle choke is a common submission hold used in BJJ that can be very difficult to escape once fully locked in. However, with the right technique and strategy, it is possible to escape the triangle and avoid being submitted. Here’s how to perform an effective triangle escape:

Posture Up

The first step in escaping a triangle is to posture up. This means sitting up and straightening your back while also creating space between yourself and your opponent. This can be done by pushing your opponent’s hips away from you or using your hands to push their knee down.

Create Space

Once you have postured up, the next step is to create space between your neck and your opponent’s legs. This can be done by placing your hands on your opponent’s hips or thighs and pushing them away from you. You can also use your elbows to create space by pushing down on your opponent’s knees.

Move Your Head

After creating space, you want to move your head out of the triangle choke. To do this, turn your head to the side that has the leg over your shoulder. This will allow you to slip your head out from between your opponent’s legs.

Free Your Arm

Once your head is out of the triangle, the next step is to free your arm that is trapped inside. This can be done by reaching over your opponent’s leg and grabbing your own knee. Pull your knee towards your chest, and at the same time, push your opponent’s leg over your shoulder. This will help to free your arm and release the pressure on your neck.

Establish Control

After freeing your arm, you need to establish control of your opponent. This can be done by grabbing their leg and pulling it towards you. You can also use your other arm to grab their arm and secure it to your body.

Pass the Guard

Once you have established control, the final step is to pass your opponent’s guard. This can be done by pushing your opponent’s leg down and stepping over it with your free leg. You can also use your elbow to push down on your opponent’s knee and create space to pass their guard.

 

Overall, escaping a triangle choke requires a combination of technique, strategy, and quick thinking. By practicing these steps and developing your skills, you can become proficient at escaping the triangle choke and avoid being submitted in a match.