How to Improve Your Escape Techniques in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Getting stuck in a bad position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be frustrating and exhausting. Whether you’re trapped in side control, mounted, or caught in a submission, knowing how to escape efficiently can make all the difference. Developing strong escape techniques not only enhances your defense but also builds confidence and improves overall performance. In this guide, we'll break down essential escapes and strategies to help you stay safe and regain control.


Understanding the Importance of Escapes

Escapes are a fundamental part of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. They allow practitioners to:

  • Avoid submissions – Escaping bad positions reduces the risk of getting submitted.
  • Conserve energy – Effective escapes require technique over brute strength.
  • Regain control – A successful escape transitions you to a dominant or neutral position.
  • Boost confidence – The ability to escape gives practitioners peace of mind when rolling.


Essential Escape Techniques

Escaping Side Control

Side control is a dominant position for your opponent, but with the right approach, you can escape effectively.

Bridge and Shrimp

  1. Frame – Use your arms to create space against your opponent’s shoulder and hip.
  2. Bridge – Drive your hips upward to unbalance your opponent.
  3. Shrimp – Slide your hips out to create distance.
  4. Recover guard or turtle – Once you create space, reposition yourself.


Underhook Escape

  1. Get an underhook – Use your near arm to reach under your opponent’s armpit.
  2. Turn to your side – This makes it harder for your opponent to apply pressure.
  3. Come to your knees – Work your way up to a neutral position.


Escaping Mount

Being mounted is one of the worst positions, but escapes are possible with proper technique.

Bridge and Roll

  1. Trap an arm and leg – Isolate one side by controlling your opponent’s wrist and foot.
  2. Bridge explosively – Use your hips to lift your opponent.
  3. Roll over – Redirect their weight and land in their guard.


Elbow Escape

  1. Frame against their knee – Use your forearm to create space.
  2. Shrimp out – Move your hips while sliding a knee through.
  3. Recover guard – Continue moving until you can establish a defensive position.


Escaping Back Control

Back control is one of the most dangerous positions, but there are ways to escape.

Hand Fight and Turn

  1. Control their hands – Prevent the choke by stripping grips.
  2. Turn to the choking side – Move toward the arm that is attacking your neck.
  3. Drop your shoulders – Slip down and turn into your opponent’s guard.


Hip Escape

  1. Bridge – Create movement by shifting your weight.
  2. Shrimp to the mat – Slide your hips downward.
  3. Turn into guard – Establish a safer position.


Drills to Improve Your Escapes

  • Positional sparring – Start in a bad position and work exclusively on escapes.
  • Solo bridging and shrimping – Build muscle memory for movement efficiency.
  • Frame and movement drills – Focus on creating space against resistance.
  • Rolling with higher belts – Experience resistance and refine techniques.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Relying on strength – Technique should always take priority over power.
  • Panic movements – Stay calm and think strategically.
  • Ignoring frames – Proper framing prevents opponents from settling their weight.
  • Forgetting to anticipate – Read your opponent’s movements and react accordingly.


FAQs

How long does it take to get good at escapes?

Improving your escapes depends on consistency. Practicing specific drills and applying them in sparring will accelerate your progress.


Should I focus on escapes as a beginner?

Absolutely! Developing solid escapes early in your training builds confidence and prepares you for more advanced techniques.


Are there any specific workouts to improve escape ability?

Yes, core and hip mobility exercises, such as bridges, shrimps, and sprawls, can enhance your escape performance.



Conclusion

Mastering escape techniques in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is crucial for every practitioner. By drilling proper movements, avoiding common mistakes, and maintaining a calm mindset, you can significantly improve your ability to regain control in difficult situations. Ready to take your BJJ skills to the next level? Book your free trial today at Athlon Jiu-Jitsu in San Antonio, TX!


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