The Turtle Escape is a crucial defensive technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Often applied when caught in a tight, defensive situation, it involves escaping from the turtle position, named so for the way the practitioner folds up their body. This technique would help practitioners quickly transition to more advantageous positions and increase their defense strategies.
Begin in the turtle position with your knees and hands touching the ground, forming a shell-like posture.
Use your elbow and knee on one side to initiate the escape. This should be the side away from your opponent. Start to move your bodyweight to this side.
As your weight shifts, pivot on your other knee to open up to a seated position with your back to your opponent. You're now in a defensive guard position.
To defend against the Turtle Escape, it's important to maintain control over your opponent by attempting to control their hip movement. This can typically be achieved by keeping your weight on them during their escape attempt.
The simplest way to counter the Turtle Escape is by using strong top pressure and following the movement of the defender. This could also include moving to the side and applying a chocking or locking technique.
In competition, the Turtle Escape is often used when caught in a disadvantageous position like the turtle position. It helps in quickly transitioning to a safer position and prevents the opponent from getting a dominant position or applying submissions.
The Turtle Escape is a core defensive move in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that allows a practitioner to transform a weak position into a more secure posture. Its mastery requires constant practice but can prove to be a game-changer in tight situations.