4 Options to Escape Side Control Position In BJJ

Securing control over an opponent is fundamental in grappling, particularly in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). A pin involves using body positioning and gravity to dominate a fully resisting opponent. According to renowned coach John Danaher, a pin in Jiu-Jitsu should enable the dominant athlete to strike while minimizing the risk of retaliation. This emphasizes the importance of positional superiority for initiating attacks effectively.

One of the most challenging pins in BJJ is the cross-side position, also known as side control, notorious for its difficulty to escape. Today, we’ll explore various strategies to safely navigate and counter this formidable pinning technique.

Let's begin by defining side control in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Side control is a grappling pin where the top player lies perpendicular to the opponent, typically chest-to-chest. Using bodyweight and arms, they apply substantial pressure on the opponent's torso, prompting defensive reactions or escape attempts. Unlike positions involving leg entanglements, side control primarily utilizes upper body engagement.

Due to its stability, side control is favored by beginners and larger BJJ practitioners, as escaping can pose challenges. Its inherent control makes it effective in dominating a fully resisting opponent, often without the risk of common counters like the upa escape from mount.

Now, let's explore essential techniques for escaping side control.

In this instructional video, 10th Planet Blackbelt and coach Brandon McCaghren shares effective side control escapes suitable for beginners and intermediate practitioners alike. Known for his technical expertise, McCaghren demonstrates two primary escapes:

1. Knee-In Escape: McCaghren emphasizes the importance of gaining inside position by inserting your elbow and forearm near the opponent's far hip. By placing your arm against their head and bridging to the side, you create the necessary space to frame and eventually insert your knee. This technique can be repeated against larger opponents. Once your knee is inserted, use shrimping movements to return to guard.
2. Backward Roll Escape: Similar to the knee-in escape, this technique begins with bumping the opponent's head with your arm to initiate movement. Quickly place your knee near their hip as you execute a backward roll, creating space for your knee to come free. Ensure your head moves away to avoid the cross-face, then shrimp back to recover guard.

The final technique demonstrated by Brandon is the classic ghost escape, ideal when the opponent's arm is positioned over your head. This technique effectively shifts the opponent's bodyweight. Begin by moving the framing arm from their hip to the opposite side while blocking their head with your other arm. Utilize your legs to swing and generate momentum, employing a scissoring motion with your arms to facilitate the escape. This can be executed swiftly in one fluid motion or through smaller swings. Once your head is free, secure the front headlock position and initiate your offensive strategy. You can even capitalize on a mid-transition opportunity for a D’Arce Choke if the opponent is unsuspecting.

Now, it's important to clarify that while these three techniques are effective against various opponents, executing them during live sparring can pose challenges. Here's our strategy if you find yourself stuck in bottom side control.

Use your arms and legs to establish frames that create distance between you and your opponent. Keep your elbows close to your body and place your hands on their hips or chest to push them away. Actively engage your hips to shrimp (move them away) and generate space. Combine bridging and shrimping to create angles that disrupt your opponent's control over you.

Ensure your chin is tucked to safeguard your neck against chokes and submissions. Be wary of setups like the North-South choke or arm triangle and maintain vigilance in defending your neck. Employ your hands and arms to create barriers, blocking your opponent from gripping your collar or neck. Effective hand-fighting is essential to defend against chokes effectively.

Framing is a core principle in BJJ, strategically used to block opponents' advances and submission attempts effectively.

Utilize your frames to manage your opponent's hips effectively. A common approach is employing your inside knee and elbow to control their hip movement, preventing them from achieving more advantageous positions. Stay mindful of their efforts to isolate your arms or initiate submissions. Maintain tight elbows to reduce vulnerability to arm attacks.

Maintain a Calm and Technical Approach – Avoid panicking, as it can lead to errors. Stay composed, focus on controlled breathing, and plan your next steps deliberately. Conserve energy with deep, rhythmic breaths. Look for opportunities to disrupt your opponent's balance and return to guard. Patience is crucial; await the opportune moment to execute explosive escapes or regain guard position.

Mastering the skill of escaping side control requires dedicated practice. We recommend studying the techniques we've outlined and incorporating them into your training sessions regularly.