Ghost Escape
Side Control Escape
When trapped under side control, executing a smooth escape is crucial for regaining an advantageous position. This advanced escape technique is suitable for both Gi and No-Gi jiu jitsu, designed to counter when the opponent places their arm over your head.
Key Steps
- Frame and Protect: Start by framing against your opponent's shoulder or neck with your near-side arm, keeping your other arm across your body.
- Head Movement: Shift your head to create space and move your framing arm to the opposite side of your opponent's head.
- Hip Escape: Perform a hip escape to create distance, leveraging your legs for momentum.
- Scissor Motion: Use a scissoring motion with your arms to redirect your opponent’s weight, allowing you to rotate your body away from them.
- Recover Guard: Once free, quickly reposition yourself to recover guard or transition to a more dominant position.
Application
This technique is best applied when your opponent commits their weight forward, enabling you to exploit the shift in balance. It is highly effective against aggressive opponents who overcommit to controlling your head.
Common Mistakes
- Poor Framing: Failing to maintain a strong frame can lead to increased pressure on your neck.
- Inadequate Space Creation: Not creating enough space with your hips can result in a failed escape attempt.
Tips
- Stay Calm: Relax and breathe; rushing can lead to mistakes.
- Practice Timing: Drill this move to perfect the timing of your scissor motion.
- Leverage Legs: Use your legs to generate the necessary momentum for the escape.
Mastering this escape can significantly enhance your defensive bjj techniques, providing a reliable method to counter side control pressure in jiu jitsu moves. Although it requires practice, the payoff in live rolling is substantial.