In the vast realm of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the journey from one position to another is often a dance of intricate movements, leverage, and timing. Among the many transitions that a practitioner can employ, the move from the turtle top position to taking the back stands out as one of the most dominant shifts in control. The back take, as many seasoned practitioners would attest, is a position of significant advantage, offering a plethora of submission opportunities and control. In this video, the legendary Roger Gracie elucidates a technique that not only facilitates this transition but does so with a finesse that is characteristic of his style. This technique, which revolves around opening the opponent’s leg to secure a hook, is a testament to the principle that in BJJ, understanding and manipulating even the minutest details can yield profound results.
Roger begins by establishing a grip on the opponent’s cross lapel while in the turtle top position. This grip is paramount as it anchors the practitioner to the opponent, ensuring that they move in tandem. With the grip secured, Roger introduces his knee inside, effectively isolating the opponent’s leg. This isolation is further accentuated by stepping over the opponent’s foot.
The magic of this technique lies in the subsequent movement. By leaning over the opponent’s head, Roger lightens his leg, allowing him to pull on the opponent’s leg while simultaneously pushing his own leg under the opponent’s. This dual action, which involves pulling and pushing, facilitates the insertion of the hook. Once the hook is in place, the back take becomes almost inevitable.
The beauty of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lies in its endless depth and the myriad ways one can approach a single position. Roger Gracie’s technique of opening the leg to secure a hook and transition from the turtle top position to the back is a testament to this depth. It’s a reminder that in BJJ, the devil is indeed in the details. As you incorporate this technique into your repertoire, remember to practice with care, always being mindful of your partner’s safety. And as always, continue exploring, learning, and refining your game. The journey of Jiu-Jitsu is endless, and every technique learned is a step further into this beautiful art.