Freestyle Wrestling vs. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Strategies for Escaping Common Submissions

In the dynamic world of combat sports, understanding how to counter various submission holds can significantly impact your performance. Freestyle wrestlers often face challenging techniques from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioners, such as the head scissors, guillotine chokehold, armbar, and heel hook. Mastering the art of escape from these submissions is crucial for success on the mat.

1. Head Scissors

The head scissors is a dangerous submission that can quickly incapacitate a wrestler if not escaped properly. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the escape technique:

a. Posture Up

If you find yourself in a head scissors position, the first crucial step is to maintain a strong posture. Keep your head up and avoid getting too low. This helps in creating control and preventing a quick submission attempt.

b. Create Space

Use your hands to push against your opponent's legs to create space. You can also try to turn your body slightly to one side to relieve pressure. This subtle movement can create enough space to slip your head out of the scissor grip.

c. Roll Out

Once you have created enough space, roll towards the side of their leg that is not squeezing your head. This rolls your opponent in the opposite direction and helps you escape their grip. Ensure to maintain your posture and stability during the roll.

2. Guillotine Chokehold

The guillotine chokehold is another submission that requires quick thinking and a controlled approach. Here’s how to escape from this hold:

a. Tuck Your Chin

When caught in a guillotine, tucking your chin to your chest is a vital step. This protects your throat and makes it harder for your opponent to finish the submission. It also opens up space for you to move.

b. Posture Up or Change Levels

If you can, posture up by standing or bending your knees to relieve pressure. Alternatively, you can lower your level and move towards your opponent to alleviate the choke. This change in level can take your opponent by surprise.

c. Use Your Arms

If possible, use your hands to push down on your opponent's wrist or arm to create space and slip your head out. You can also try to turn your body to the side to further escape the choke. Quick, decisive movements can often disrupt your opponent's hold.

3. Armbar

The armbar is a highly effective finishing move that can quickly end a grappling match. Here’s how to escape this potent submission:

a. Control the Opponent's Hips

If your opponent has an armbar, control their hips by clamping down with your legs or pushing against them. This prevents them from extending the arm and provides you with leverage to escape the hold.

b. Stacking

If you are on top, you can stack your opponent by driving forward onto them. This creates extra pressure and makes it harder for them to extend the arm. Stacking can force your opponent to release their grip, giving you time to escape.

c. Roll Out

If you are stacked, roll in the direction of the arm being attacked. This roll can help you escape the hold. Ensure you keep your elbow tight to your body during the roll to prevent them from re-securing the armbar.

4. Heel Hook

The heel hook is a submission that targets the knee and is particularly painful. Here’s how to escape from this dangerous move:

a. Protect Your Leg

When caught in a heel hook, prioritize protecting your knee and leg by keeping your foot flexed and your toes pointed to the ground. This reduces the effectiveness of the hook and buys you time to escape.

b. Turn Your Body

Try to turn your body in the direction of the heel hook to relieve pressure. This might involve rolling or moving your hips away from your opponent. This subtle movement can help you find a way to break free.

c. Escape the Grip

If you can, use your hands to grip your opponent's ankle or foot to break their hold. This creates space for an escape. Once you have space, use your legs to roll out of the hold.

General Tips for Escaping BJJ Holds

Regardless of the submission, these general tips can improve your ability to escape:

a. Stay Calm

Panicking can lead to mistakes. Stay composed and think through your escape options. Having a clear mind can help you react more effectively to the hold.

b. Practice

Regularly drilling escapes with a partner can improve your ability to react in live situations. Consistent practice helps muscle memory and builds confidence in your escape techniques.

c. Understand the Mechanics

Knowing how each hold works will help you anticipate your opponent’s movements and find openings for escape. Understanding the mechanics of each move can provide insights into the best way to counter it.

By utilizing these techniques and principles, a freestyle wrestler can effectively escape from various Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu submissions. Always remember, the key to escaping these holds is a combination of quick thinking, controlled movement, and a strong foundation in the fundamentals of grappling.