THE GREAT ESCAPE

One of the most common questions I am asked – at all levels (including Black Belt) is – how to effect a good escape from Side Control – as applied by someone who knows how to do so effectively. It's one thing to escape the Side Control of someone who has virtually no skills - but then again, how would such a person establish a solid Side Control on an experienced grappler in the first place? Unlikely.
We should understand from the very outset - that escaping Side COntrol is not necessarily an easy task. If the person who has you pinned in Side Control is good – and presumably they are because they have passed your Guard and have you pinned – then we shouldn’t expect this to be all that easy. But I will demonstrate a simple variation on the basic method in the attached video clip; one that might make our efforts more fruitful. Pay careful attention to the ‘not so obvious’ detail here – is in the ANGLE at which we apply our BRIDGE, before we hip away and insert the TIP of our knee. Please watch closely; I am sure it will help.
From a broader perspective, it is also a good idea to think of our escapes in terms of 'problem solving' - and the way to solve problems is to slice them up into manageable portions. Trying to solve complex problems with a SINGLE DEFINITIVE SOLUTION is usually ineffectual. Problems that have a high level of complexity almost always require a multi-step solution.
Whether it's a rock-climbing problem, a financial problem, a relationship problem or a BJJ problem ... start out with the notion that we will need to invest ourselves in the process of the solution as opposed to looking for a single, easy trick to fix things. The key to a good solution is almost always in the fine details.
Best wishes
JBW

Comments

Gerry Young said…
That is a great concept John, thanks.
Rex said…
Excellent tip, I'll put that to use next time I’m on the mat for sure. Thanks so much for putting up quality content on a regular basis. Your philosophies and concepts are all very insightful and inspiring.
Thanks
Rex
JBW said…
Thanks Rex ... I am glad you are finding the tips and ideas tobe useful. Work on that 'angle' of bridge with your escape from side control and you will find it will help immensely. best wishes
JBW
Anonymous said…
I like to read your tips and tricks and I try to store them away for consideration. As a novice, I am still trying to consolidate the most basic of basics, but the theory and insight you share is helping me along the way.
Watching you apply techniques is a pleasure, something I would associate with watching an archer or a marksmen make a good hit on target.
Thanks for sharing.
Damian
JBW said…
Thanks Damian
as a novice it is easy to be overwhlemed - I felt that way myself. Just continue to focus on building a foundation to your game ... over time, build calrity on the ONE technique you will do for each and every position, this build foundation and will give you a base to 'attach' everything else to over time ...
best wishes
JBW
Anonymous said…
Nice hip movement Professor. Lots of little details there. I like it!

Cheers

Stewie Moulden
Seattle skier said…
Thank you John. This technique is working for me even when my opponent is much heavier than me! Your video tips are really great.

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