BJJ escapes

An escape gets you out of a bad position, back to guard or to your feet. Escapes score no points, but they keep you safe.

Survive first, then escape. Protect your neck and arms before you try to move.

Mount escapes

Mount: the other person sits on your chest or belly.

• UpaTrap one arm and the foot on the same side, then bridge and roll them over. Also called bridge and roll.
• Elbow EscapeTurn to your side, move your hips out, and bring a knee back in. Also called the knee-elbow escape.

Side control and knee on belly escapes

Side control: the other person lies across your chest, past your legs.

• Escape to the KneesBridge, get the underhook, and turn onto your knees.
• Running EscapeTurn away on your side, knee tucked and neck covered, then hip out. Also works under knee on belly.
• Headlock EscapeFree the trapped arm under kesa gatame, then bridge or hip out.

Back and turtle escapes

• Back EscapeFight the hands. Drop your shoulders to the mat on the side of their under-arm (the arm under your armpit). Clear the hook.
• Shoulder RollFrom turtle, roll over one shoulder and come out in guard. Do it early.
• Sit-outFrom all fours, swing one leg through so you sit and face them.

Submission escapes

• Hitchhiker EscapeTurn your thumb up and rotate out of an armbar while the elbow is still bent.
• Guillotine DefenseTake pressure off the throat, then move to the side of their choking arm.

Movements under every escape

• BridgeLift your hips high from your back. It makes space for the escape.
• ShrimpMove your hips away on your side so a knee can come in. Also called the hip escape.
• FramesArms and legs used like poles to hold space. Bones, not muscle.
• Survival PostureElbows in, chin down, hands near your neck. It buys you time.
• Granby RollA shoulder roll that brings your legs back in front of them, so you get your guard back.

Which escape first