BJJ Position: Turtle (bottom)

The turtle position is a defensive posture in grappling, often used as a temporary position to avoid being pinned or to recover from a failed takedown or sweep attempt. While it may not provide as many offensive options as other positions, it is essential to understand the key aspects of the bottom turtle position to ensure you can protect yourself effectively and transition to more advantageous positions.

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The Art of Early Turtle Defense by Lachlan Giles

The key aspects of the bottom turtle position

  1. Defense: In the bottom turtle position, your primary focus should be on defending yourself from your opponent’s attacks and maintaining a compact, tight posture. Keep your elbows close to your body, with your hands protecting your neck and collar. Your knees should be close to your elbows, creating a tight, closed structure. Tuck your chin and keep your head low, making it more difficult for your opponent to establish control or set up submissions.
  2. Offense: While the bottom turtle position may not offer as many offensive options as other positions, it can still be used as a starting point for reversals, escapes, and transitions. Some common techniques from the bottom turtle position include the Granby roll, sit-out escape, and the double-leg or single-leg takedown. The choice of attack will depend on your opponent’s reactions, pressure, and the specific grips they have established.
  3. Transition: The bottom turtle position can be used as a starting point for transitioning to other positions or setups, depending on your opponent’s reactions and your own preferences. You might transition to more dominant positions such as the guard, half guard, or even top position if you can successfully reverse your opponent. Developing the ability to transition smoothly between the bottom turtle position and other positions can make you a more dynamic and unpredictable grappler.
  4. Opponent’s Attacks: When in the bottom turtle position, it’s important to be aware of your opponent’s potential attacks and strategies. Common attacks your opponent may attempt include chokes (such as the clock choke, bow and arrow choke, or the rear naked choke), armlocks, back takes, or even transitioning to dominant positions like side control or mount. Being aware of these potential threats will help you develop appropriate defenses and counters.

 

In summary, the bottom turtle position is a defensive posture that emphasizes maintaining a compact, tight structure, protecting yourself from your opponent’s attacks, and creating opportunities for reversals, escapes, and transitions. By focusing on these aspects, you can develop a strong bottom turtle game that can help you recover from compromised positions and work your way back to more advantageous positions. Remember, the key to success in the bottom turtle position is to stay active, constantly adjusting your posture and reacting to your opponent’s movements to maintain your defensive structure and create opportunities for offense.