The Granby Roll: A Must-Know Move in Jiu Jitsu

Jiu Jitsu is a grappling martial art that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It requires technique, skill, and strategy to outmaneuver an opponent. One of the most important techniques in Jiu Jitsu is the Granby Roll, a move that is used to escape from a bad position or to reverse the momentum of a fight. In this article, we will discuss the Granby Roll, its variations, and how to perform it.

What is the Granby Roll?

The Granby Roll is a Jiu Jitsu technique that involves rolling over the shoulder while maintaining a tight grip on your opponent. It is used primarily as an escape from the bottom position, but it can also be used as a reversal to gain the upper hand in a fight.

The Granby Roll is named after the late legendary wrestler Granby High School wrestling coach, Billy Martin. The technique originated in wrestling and was adapted to Jiu Jitsu by legendary Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner, Eddie Bravo.

How to perform the Granby Roll?

The Granby Roll can be performed from several different positions, including the turtle position, half guard, and side control. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to perform the Granby Roll:

1. Start in the turtle position, which is when you are on your hands and knees with your opponent on your back. Ensure that your head is facing down to avoid giving your opponent access to your neck.

2. Reach your arm underneath your opponent’s body and grab their opposite leg, pulling it towards you. This will disrupt your opponent’s balance and create an opening for you to execute the roll.

3. Use your free hand to grab your opponent’s far-side arm, pulling it towards you to create more space for the roll.

4. As you roll, tuck your chin into your chest to protect your neck and shoulder. Your feet should be driving off the ground to generate momentum.

5. As you complete the roll, use your grip on your opponent’s leg and arm to gain control of their back or to sweep them and end up on top.

Variations of the Granby Roll

The Granby Roll has several variations that can be used depending on the position you are in and the technique you want to execute. Here are some of the most common variations:

1. Half Guard Granby Roll: In this variation, you start in the half guard position with your opponent on top. Use your free arm to grab your opponent’s wrist and pull it towards you, while simultaneously using your legs to create space. This will allow you to perform the Granby Roll and end up in the top position.

2. Side Control Granby Roll: This variation is used when your opponent has you in side control. Use your free arm to push your opponent’s knee towards their chest, while using your legs to shrimp away. This will create the space you need to perform the Granby Roll and end up in a better position.

3. Sit-Out Granby Roll: In this variation, you start in the turtle position and execute a sit-out before performing the Granby Roll. This will create more momentum and make it easier to complete the roll.

Drilling the Granby Roll

Like any other technique in Jiu Jitsu, the Granby Roll requires practice to master. Drilling the technique with a partner is the best way to become comfortable with it. Here are some tips for drilling the Granby Roll:

1. Start slow: Begin by drilling the Granby Roll slowly to ensure that you are performing the technique correctly.

2. Practice the Granby roll with a partner: Once you’ve got the basic movements down, find a partner to practice with. Start in the turtle position and have your partner apply pressure by putting their weight on top of you. Use the same movements as before to initiate the Granby roll, but this time your partner’s weight will make it more challenging. Focus on maintaining control of your partner’s arm and leg as you roll, and use your momentum to escape the position and come up on top.

3. Repetition is key: Like any technique in Jiu-Jitsu, repetition is essential to mastering the Granby roll. Practice the Granby roll regularly, and try to incorporate it into your training sessions. The more you drill the technique, the more comfortable and natural it will feel in live situations.

4. Focus on your timing: Timing is crucial when performing the Granby roll. You need to be able to time the roll just right so that you can escape your opponent’s control and come up on top. Pay attention to your partner’s movements and try to anticipate when they are about to apply pressure. This will help you time the Granby roll more effectively and make it easier to execute.

5. Learn to transition into other techniques: The Granby roll is a versatile technique that can be used to transition into other moves. For example, if you roll into a back take and your opponent defends by rolling back to their stomach, you can use the momentum to transition into a Kimura or armbar. By learning to chain the Granby roll with other techniques, you’ll become a more well-rounded Jiu-Jitsu practitioner.

6. Practice the Granby roll on both sides: Finally, it’s important to practice the Granby roll on both sides. This will help you develop a more balanced game and ensure that you can execute the technique regardless of which side you’re on. Make sure to spend equal time practicing the Granby roll on both your left and right sides.

Using the Granby Roll in Sparring

Now that you have drilled the Granby Roll and have a good understanding of how to execute it, it’s time to try it out in sparring. One of the best times to use the Granby Roll is when your opponent has taken your back and has their hooks in. As soon as you feel your opponent begin to lock in the hooks, begin to execute the roll. This will give you the opportunity to come up on top and start working your own game.

Another great opportunity to use the Granby Roll is when your opponent has you pinned in side control. As soon as you feel that you cannot escape the position, begin to execute the Granby Roll. This will give you the opportunity to come up on top and possibly take your opponent’s back or even submit them.

Conclusion:

The Granby Roll is a versatile and effective technique that every Jiu-Jitsu practitioner should have in their arsenal. While it may take some time to get comfortable with the movement, with consistent practice and drilling, you will be able to execute the technique with ease. Remember to focus on the key points, such as keeping your head close to your opponent and using your hips to generate power. With a solid understanding of the Granby Roll, you will be able to use this technique to escape bad positions and turn the tables on your opponent.