The back control is the most dominate position in jiu jitsu so this position is addressed immediately when we introduce beginners to BJJ. Not only does the back control carry the most points in BJJ tournaments but it is also where we prefer our practitioner end up (on someones back) if ever threatened in a self defense scenario. In practice, and in rolling it is very important that once we get to our opponents back we maintain control of their back until we get the submission, usually with a choke from behind.
It is possible that our opponent will escape or at least try to escape the back so it is also important to understand the important of maintaining a top position (like side control or mount) if we do lose the back control. In other words, we don’t want to end up on our back (on the ground) after we lose the control, we need to maintain the top position.
This video covers three drills and techniques which will introduce students to “the back” without having to worry about chokes too early in their journey, as well as develop good habits by maintaining a top position if they lose control of the back.
Leg Drill #1 (Warm Up): This first drill you will do in this practice is our “hook warm up” drill. In order to maintain our back position when the opponent tries to escape our “hooks” (aka the legs in jiu jitsu)
Drill this on the clock for 1, 2, for 3 minutes each and use multiple partners to get a feel for different body types.
Maintain Top Position W/ Back Escape Drill:
Opponent escapes from the Back, we keep control and make sure we stay on top (Side Control) when he tries to turn in and re-guard.
Back Escape Drill (No Chokes) -
Hold your position on the back while the opponent looks to escape the control, but with no submissions.