There’s some monsters out there that know how to make side control one of the most horrendous of experiences.
They settle their weight just right. They drive off their feet into the side of your ribs just right. And they smash their shoulder into your chin just right.
It’s almost seems like they putting no effort into it at all, as you flail around and struggle to breathe. It’s not a pleasant situation to be in. And to avoid, you’re going to need more tools in your arsenal when it comes to escape.
Let me help you out.
A Bit of Concept First
When it comes to obliterating an opponent’s ability to control you in side control, you must:
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You can find those elements in every effective side control escape, and the better you are at weakening or preventing control of your head and hips, the easier your escape will be, no matter what technique you use.
Keep that mind, as I show you one of the uncommon escapes I use.
Rolling Out Like A Ghost
I learned this escape when I was a blue belt, and it clicked right away. In fact, I remember using it during a roll THAT night. And I’ve never forgotten it since. At first, it might seem a little flashy, but it operates under solid principles.
The bridge is absolutely key.
That creates the space needed to move and weakens any control your opponent has of your hips. What might not be noticeable though is how the overhook is used to weaken control of the head. The side of the wrist digs into the armpit, which shifts your opponent’s body slightly, and if your chin is getting smashed, that little bit of space is a life saver. Oh, and it also makes the escape easier as well.
And the second part of the demonstration is a little drill, I’ve been using to develop the movement and counter the knee cut pass. It’s so easy to lose track of time when you’re doing. You’ll have fun doing it, and it’s a great warmup.