1. The Hip Escape (Shrimping)
Why it matters:
This is your escape hatch. The hip escape teaches you how to move your hips away from pressure — a key principle in almost every escape.
When to use it:
Whenever you’re stuck under side control, mount, or even during guard recovery.
Tip:
Practice this as a warm-up every session. Great shrimping = great survival.
2. The Closed Guard & Scissor Sweep
Why it matters:
The closed guard is your foundation for offense from the bottom. The scissor sweep is a basic — yet powerful — way to reverse the fight and land on top.
When to use it:
When you have closed guard and your opponent postures up or leaves a knee forward.
Tip:
Focus on timing and posture control — not brute force.
3. Bridge & Roll Escape (Upa)
Why it matters:
Being mounted feels hopeless… unless you know how to bridge and roll. It’s a must-know escape.
When to use it:
When someone’s mounted on you and posts a hand on the mat.
Tip:
Trap the arm and foot on one side, bridge explosively, and roll.
4. Guard Retention: Knee-to-Elbow Drill
Why it matters:
Getting passed is frustrating — especially when you’re still learning how to control the pace. Guard retention drills, like the knee-to-elbow, help you maintain your position and stay safe.
When to use it:
When someone is trying to pass around your legs.
Tip:
Stay active. Don’t let your hips go flat!
5. Basic Cross Collar Choke from Guard
Why it matters:
A powerful, fundamental submission that teaches control, grip fighting, and pressure.
When to use it:
From closed guard, when your opponent allows you to establish deep collar grips.
Tip:
Think “blade across the neck,” not “pull as hard as possible.”
Final Thoughts
At REEN, we believe in training with intent — and nothing builds confidence faster than knowing you have go-to movements that work. Mastering these five techniques will not only keep you safer on the mats but give you a strong foundation to build on.
Train with purpose. Show up consistently. Trust the process.