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IntermediateInvert
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About This Technique
Technique Overview
The "Invert" or inverted guard technique is a versatile and dynamic position used commonly in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It generally involves inverting one's body, either from the back, shoulder, or head to mix up the guard, create new attack angles, or escape unfavorable positions. It is frequently employed in Open Guard situations and is a notable feature in the modern "Berimbolo" technique. While not traditionally named in Japanese, it embodies the fluid and adaptive nature of the art.
Position(s) Used From
- Open Guard
- Spider Guard
- De La Riva Guard
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Setting Up from Open Guard
- Start in open guard with your opponent standing or kneeling.
- Establish grips on your opponent's sleeves or collar.
- Ensure a solid hook with your legs, utilizing either a De La Riva or butterfly hook, depending on the opponent's stance.
-
Initiating the Inversion
- Shift your weight onto your shoulders.
- Tuck your head towards your chest to allow a fluid roll.
- Use your opposite hand to post on the mat to stabilize the inversion.
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Rotating the Hips
- With your weight on your shoulders, rotate your hips upward.
- Use your legs for leverage, aiming to twist your torso.
- Your goal is to bring your hips in a circular motion around the opponent’s leg.
-
Establish Control
- Use your free hand to grab their belt or opposite pants leg for further control.
- While maintaining a solid grip on their sleeve, your hooks should maintain constant pressure, adjusting as necessary.
-
Attacking or Transitioning
- From the inverted position, several options become available:
- Transition to the back by 'Berimbolo-ing' through their legs.
- Sweep them by adjusting your leverage and off-balancing them.
- Attack with a leg lock if their leg is within reach.
- From the inverted position, several options become available:
-
Completing the Movement
- Whether to attack a submission, transition to another guard, or sweep, ensure control.
- Re-stabilize your position once completed, maintaining grips and posture.
Important Tips and Safety
- Neck and Back Safety: Protect yourself by tucking the chin and avoiding abrupt neck movements.
- Grips: Strong grips are crucial to control and initiate the inversion.
- Practice Slowly: Until comfortable, perform each step slowly to ensure balance and control.
Conclusion
The "Invert" is more than just a showy move; it's strategic, offering many attack and transition options. Mastery of the inverted guard can significantly enhance open guard gameplay.
How to Execute
# Invert from Open Guard in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
## Setup
- **Initial Position Details**: Begin in the open guard position with your opponent standing or kneeling in front of you. Your hips should be mobile, and you should be able to pivot on your back.
- **Grips and Controls Needed**: Establish grips on your opponent's sleeves or collar, and use your feet to control their hips or thighs. This will help you manage distance and create the necessary leverage.
## Steps
1. **Establish Control**:
- Secure a grip on your opponent’s right sleeve with your left hand.
- Place your right foot on their left hip or thigh to maintain distance and control.
2. **Create Angle**:
- Use your left foot to push off the ground, rotating your body to create an angle between you and your opponent.
- Your left leg should be free, ready to swing around or hook your opponent’s leg if needed.
3. **Initiate the Inversion**:
- Tuck your chin slightly and begin to roll over your right shoulder by lifting your hips off the mat.
- Aim to bring your head under your opponent’s torso or legs, using your right foot on their hip for leverage.
4. **Pivot on Your Shoulders**:
- As your hips go up, pivot on your shoulders to rotate your body.
- Your left leg can now swing under your body to assist in the inversion, or hook your opponent’s leg for added control.
5. **Complete the Inversion**:
- Roll your body so that your back is now facing your opponent, and your head is pointing towards their legs.
- Use your grips to control their position and prevent them from countering or escaping.
6. **Establish Position**:
- Once inverted, use your legs to keep your opponent’s legs at bay, maintaining control over their hips.
- Consider transitioning to a more dominant position, such as a berimbolo, or setting up a sweep or submission.
## Key Points
- **Important Details to Remember**:
- Keep your movements fluid and maintain control over your opponent’s arms or collar to prevent them from passing your guard.
- Utilize your legs actively to maintain distance and manage your opponent’s balance.
- **Common Mistakes to Avoid**:
- Avoid lifting your hips without a solid grip, as this can lead to losing control and giving up a guard pass.
- Don’t neglect to tuck your chin properly; failing to do so can lead to neck discomfort or injury.
- Ensure your shoulders are rolling smoothly; do not roll directly onto your neck.
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