Back to Techniques
Open GuardBottom
Intermediatepretzel-jitsu
N/A
Share
Share this page
About This Technique
Pretzel-jitsu Technique
Overview: The term "Pretzel-jitsu" isn't a formally recognized technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) but instead refers to the concept of creating a complex, intertwined position that forces the opponent into submission. It resembles a pretzel in terms of complexity and unforeseen entanglement. This technique can be applied from several positions but is most effective from the Open Guard or Butterfly Guard. It requires creativity, flexibility, and tactical understanding of BJJ transitions.
Position: Open Guard
-
Engage in Open Guard Formation:
- Sit on your mat with your legs extended slightly outward.
- Use your grips on your opponent's sleeves or pants to impede their movement.
-
Establish Control:
- Keep one foot on the opponent's bicep while pulling them closer with your hands.
- Use your other foot to hook inside their thigh to prevent forward movement.
-
Create the Initial Twist (like a Pretzel):
- Elevate your hips and move your other leg across, bringing your knee in front of the opponent's shoulder.
- Use your opposite arm to pull their sleeve or collar to twist their upper body.
-
Further Entangle the Opponent:
- Move your outside foot to hook their opposite thigh, effectively crossing their body.
- Maintain tension by pulling with the arm that grips their sleeve/collar.
-
Apply Submission Pressure (Varies):
- Depending on the entanglement, possibilities include transitioning to an omoplata, triangle choke, or even setting up a back take.
- Adjust and react based on the opponent's movements, emphasizing tightening your leg and hand controls.
-
Secure the Finish:
- Once an opportunity presents itself, complete the submission by rolling with the movement, twisting their arm into an omoplata or locking a triangle choke by pulling the head down.
- Stay agile and ready to adapt with counter movements.
Possible Variations & Adaptations:
- Butterfly Guard Start:
- Use the butterfly hooks to lift and shift the opponent's weight.
- Execute similar pretzel transitions from your seated guard.
Tips & Considerations:
- Flexibility and Fluidity: The essence of Pretzel-jitsu lies in dynamic movement, hence ensure you maintain flexibility in your hips and spine.
- Awareness: Constantly monitor the opponent's counters and be ready for immediate transitions.
- Creativity: This concept encourages innovation and unorthodox applications, perfect for a practitioner who thrives on adaptability.
Remember, Pretzel-jitsu is as much about experimentation as it is about executing a finishing technique. Use the positions and principles but allow room for personal flair and adaptation. Happy rolling!
How to Execute
# Pretzel-Jitsu from Open Guard
## Setup
- **Initial Position Details:** Begin in the open guard position with your opponent kneeling in front of you. Your legs should be active, with your feet on your opponent's hips or thighs. Ensure you have good posture and a solid base, staying mobile and ready to adjust your position as needed.
- **Grips and Controls Needed:** Establish a cross-collar grip with your right hand on your opponent's left collar. Use your left hand to grip your opponent's right sleeve at the cuff. Your legs should be active, with your right foot on your opponent's left hip and your left leg free to maneuver.
## Steps
1. **Create an Angle:** Shift your hips slightly to your left while simultaneously pulling with your right hand and pushing with your right foot on your opponent's hip. This motion helps to create an angle, making it easier to execute the technique.
2. **Elevate and Control the Sleeve:** With your left hand, pull your opponent’s right sleeve across your body, bringing their arm to your left side. This helps to off-balance your opponent and opens up space.
3. **Set Up the Pretzel-Jitsu:** Use your left leg to hook under your opponent’s right knee. This hook serves to control their base and prevent them from moving forward or standing.
4. **Create Deeper Control:** With your right foot still on the hip, adjust your left leg to go over your opponent’s back, making sure your shin is pressing down on their shoulder. This adds pressure and further disrupts their posture.
5. **Execute the Sweep:** Shift your weight to the right, pulling your opponent over your left shoulder while extending your left leg and maintaining control of their arm. This motion should off-balance your opponent, forcing them to the mat.
6. **Transition to a Dominant Position:** As your opponent falls, use the momentum to follow through and transition to a top position, such as side control or mount. Ensure you maintain your grips and control to stabilize the position.
## Key Points
- **Important Details to Remember:**
- Keep your grips strong and secure throughout the technique.
- Maintain constant pressure with your legs, using them actively to control your opponent's posture and movement.
- **Common Mistakes to Avoid:**
- Failing to create a strong angle before attempting the sweep can lead to ineffective execution and loss of control.
- Neglecting to use your legs actively may allow your opponent to regain their base or counter the technique.
- Rushing the transition to a dominant position can result in losing the advantage gained from the sweep.
Rate This Technique
Sign in to rate techniques
Sign In