Heel Drag Escape

From Full Mount: Bridge-and-Drag Escape

Key Steps

Step 1: Setup and base

• This is how to set up your base: maintain strong frames; elbows tucked, hands on the mat to base, and a neutral neck.

Step 2: Create space with bridge and shrimp

• Bridge hips to the side opposite the mounted leg, then shrimp your hips away to loosen the knee base and invite a path for guard.

Step 3: Drag the leg with the heel

• Position the heel on the opponent's near thigh or hip. Use a controlled drag of the leg across your torso as you continue bridging, unbalancing the top player.

Step 4: Reposition into guard

• As the leg clears, swing your far leg back around and establish guard (closed or open) depending on distance. Reframe and re-guard to control the opponent.

Application

When to use

• Effective from high mount when space is tight and you need a quick guard recovery. Useful in jiujitsu moves and bjj techniques that rely on guard retention.

Gi vs No-Gi considerations

• Gi: use grips on sleeves or lapel to assist frames; No-Gi: rely on forearm frames and hip movement.

Mistakes

Common errors

• Failing to frame or bridge correctly; telegraphing the move; relying on the arms without freeing the hips; not finishing guard.

Timing and control

• Overextending, losing balance, or dragging too aggressively and giving up position.

Tips

Drills and progression

• Drill slowly with a partner, then add resistance. Start from passive mount, progress to live encounters.

Safety and mechanics

• Keep the head protected, avoid knee torsion, and place the heel accurately on the thigh to control the drag.