Shrimp Escape

Escaping from Knee on Belly

Key Steps

Step 1 — Create space

• Perform a hip escape away from the top pressure to gain space and angle.

Step 2 — Establish frames

• Place a near-side forearm against the opponent's chest or hip and the opposite hand on their shoulder to create a solid frame, protecting your head and hindering their pass.

Step 3 — Re-guard and recover guard

• Pivot your hips back, slide your legs inside, and re-establish guard (open or closed) using gi or no-gi grips as appropriate.

Application

• Purpose: This escape pauses the top pressure, creates space, and returns you to a safer guard position for control and counters.
• How to — step-by-step: 1) hip escape to gain space, 2) frame to block passes, 3) transition into guard by bringing legs inside and securing grips; suitable for beginners in jiu jitsu moves and bjj techniques.

Mistakes

• Not turning the hips enough or delaying the hip escape.
• Falling back on the head or over-relying on one frame.
• Letting the top leg pressure pin your knee or allowing their arms to control your neck.
• Failing to actually re-guard after escaping.

Tips

• Breathe steadily, keep elbows tight, and protect your neck.
• Practice from both sides and with gi and no-gi variations.
• Start slow, then add speed and resistance as you improve.