Hey there, fellow BJJ enthusiasts! It’s that time of the week again when we dive deep into a crucial position in our arsenal. This week, we’re shining the spotlight on one of the most challenging yet rewarding positions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu – Bottom Side Control.
Understanding the Basics
Bottom side control is a position that many of us have found ourselves in at some point during a roll. It’s where your opponent has successfully passed your guard and settled into a dominant position, pinning you beneath them. While it can feel claustrophobic and frustrating, it’s essential to remember that BJJ is all about using technique and strategy to escape even the toughest situations.
Stay Calm and Composed
The first rule of surviving bottom side control is to keep your composure. Panic is your worst enemy in this position. Take a deep breath and assess the situation. Your opponent might be looking for submissions, but you’ve got options.
Regaining Guard
One of the primary goals from bottom side control is to regain your guard. To do this, create space by using your inside elbow to push against your opponent’s hip or shoulder. Simultaneously, shrimp your hips away from your opponent to create space for your knee to slide through. Once your knee is in, work to recover your full guard or a half guard position.
Utilize Your Frame
Your arms are your best friends in bottom side control. Use your far-side arm as a frame against your opponent’s neck or hip to create distance. This prevents your opponent from applying too much pressure and sets you up for an escape. Your near-side arm can be used to protect against potential attacks and look for openings.
Bridge and Hip Escape
The bridge and hip escape are fundamental movements for escaping bottom side control. Bridge explosively while turning onto your side and then use your hips to shrimp away, creating space to recover your guard or establish a better position.
Don’t Forget to Breathe
Bottom side control can be physically taxing, and it’s easy to forget to breathe when you’re focused on escaping. Controlled breathing will help you stay relaxed and clear-headed as you work your way out.
Practice Makes Perfect
Remember, escaping bottom side control effectively takes practice. Spend time drilling these escapes with your training partners and instructors. The more you work on it, the more confident and skilled you’ll become.
In summary, mastering the art of escaping bottom side control is a crucial skill in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Stay calm, use your technique, and keep practicing. With time and dedication, you’ll turn this challenging position into an opportunity for victory.
That’s it for this week’s Position of the Week! Keep rolling, keep learning, and we’ll see you on the mats. Oss!
