Turtle To Back Take

Transition
Also known as:
Turtle To Back Control

Turtle To Back Take is a transition where the top player converts a controlling position over a turtled opponent into back control by inserting hooks or establishing a seatbelt grip. It is one of the highest-priority attacks from turtle top, as the back is the most dominant control position in BJJ.

Quick Reference

Key principles

  • · Maintain constant chest-to-back pressure so the opponent cannot create space to re-guard or stand.
  • · Establish the seatbelt grip (over-under) before attempting to insert hooks, as upper body control precedes lower body control.
  • · Insert the near-side hook first, using it as an anchor before rolling or sliding to full back control.
  • · Anticipate the opponent rolling away by following their momentum and transitioning to the choking side.
  • · Keep your hips heavy and glued to theirs to prevent them from sitting to guard or granby rolling to escape.

Execution

  1. 1 From turtle top, secure a seatbelt grip with your chest tight against their back, choking arm over their shoulder and underhook arm beneath their armpit.
  2. 2 Slide your near-side knee tight against their hip and insert your first hook (near-side foot) between their thighs.
  3. 3 Shift your weight to the choking-arm side, dragging them onto their side or pulling them into your lap.
  4. 4 Insert the second hook as they turn, locking both heels inside their thighs to establish full back control.
  5. 5 If they resist the roll, transition to standing back control by climbing onto their back and lifting or pulling them backward.

Common mistakes

  • × Reaching for hooks before securing the seatbelt, allowing the opponent to peel off control and escape to guard.
  • × Leaving hips too high or floating above the opponent, giving them space to sit through or hit a granby roll.
  • × Inserting the far-side hook first, which crosses your own legs and lets the opponent trap your foot and turn into you.

Do it from

Positions and situations where the Turtle To Back Take shows up.

Cross Body Ride Matrix Rodeo Ride Turtle Top
2 less common
Body Lock D'arce Control

Where it lands

The position you end up in.

Back Control Top Seatbelt Control Standing Back Control