In grappling sports like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Submission Grappling, and Mixed Martial Arts, gaining control of an opponent’s back stands out as a key strategy, be it during stand-up phases or ground combat (known as back mount). When standing, this position facilitates explosive takedowns, often catching the opponent off-guard and leaving minimal time for recovery. On the ground, it provides the opportunity to execute some of the most powerful chokes. In this discussion, we’ll explore five effective techniques to achieve back control starting from a standing position.
### Understanding Back Control
Back control involves positioning oneself at the opponent’s back, ideally placing your heels between the opponent’s thighs without interlocking legs. This setup allows you to immobilize at least one of their arms without moving it above the shoulder line. A major benefit of back control is that it conceals your attacks, keeping the opponent unaware and unable to anticipate your moves, and permitting arm control from a dominant angle.
For the defender, options to counter back control are generally limited. While having back control does not necessarily mean you’re in back mount, achieving back mount naturally implies you have back control. A skilled grappler can transition to back mount from back control, improving their position significantly. Once there, it’s straightforward to apply chokes or strike with ground-and-pound tactics in MMA.
### 5 Techniques to Gain Back Control from Standing
Securing a path to your opponent’s back while standing can be tricky since they remain facing you. Hence, it’s crucial to set up takedowns through well-timed angles, misdirections, or unexpected movements.
Additionally, paying attention to your opponent’s balance and movement patterns can offer clues about which foot they’re weighting. Here are some methods to achieve back control from standing:
#### 1) Duck Under
The “duck under” is a popular and versatile route to back control, adaptable from several grips like the collar tie, wrist control, triceps grip, or underhook.
Perhaps most typical from a collar tie, start by engaging with one hand on the triceps or an underhook. Firmly, yet quickly, guide your head and upper body underneath the opponent’s arm, stepping outside to position your body behind theirs. Maintain your grip to guide the opponent down as you complete the movement. If they have a stubborn or strong grip, reversing the duck under using wrist control can be an alternative approach.
#### 2) Arm Drag
Another classic tactic is the arm drag, effective both standing and grounded. It’s typically set up utilizing wrist control. For example, if your target is to maneuver to your left, secure their wrist with your left hand while slightly distracting them with a right-arm collar tie.
By pulling their wrist downward or moving it laterally, you create space to shift their arm, allowing you to step in and drag the arm, securing control at the armpit or triceps. While advancing behind them, securely place your head beyond their shoulder and clasp their far-side hip, preventing any attempts to turn back or disengage. Finish with a body lock, ensuring their near arm isn’t entangled.
#### 3) Snap Down to Front Headlock to Back Take
The snap down is instrumental for breaking an opponent’s composure and balance from a standing grapple. Wrestlers rigorously practice this technique, often initiating it from a collar tie.
To execute, use a collar tie to drag the opponent’s head downward with your arm. Drop your body weight quickly as you assume a front headlock and maneuver to prevent their recovery. Transition by moving to their back, pulling their arm across their face to ward off their attempts to grab your hips as you circle to the desired position.
#### 4) Throw By
Employ the throw by as a counter when facing an aggressive collar tie. When in this situation, elevate their arm over your head through a swift movement, rotating your body and taking advantage of their momentum. Retain your collar tie with the free hand, pulling the opponent downward and completing the back take effectively.
#### 5) Russian Two-On-One
The Russian two-on-one is a robust tool that can transition into various outcomes. If your opponent seizes a collar tie, shrug it off, capturing their arm with a firm grip.
With a solid Russian two-on-one grasp, push their arm forward as you shift your controlling hand to their hip, facilitating an easy transition to back control. Be prepared to adapt, switching to an arm drag if the opponent tries to deny you by circling or resisting.
### Conclusion
Mastering the approach to gain an opponent’s back from standing provides a tactical advantage, even against larger or stronger opponents. Develop your skills to create angles, maneuver laterally, and exploit your opponent’s movement to find your way behind them. Experiment with these techniques to see which best complements your personal grappling style!
For further insights, consider checking out why rolling with more experienced belts can dramatically enhance your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills.
