We’ve now done a full circuit of the six major positions in BJJ, so in September it’s time to return to the back. More specifically, we’re going to focus on a variation called the ‘turtle’, where you are on your elbows and knees. This position is common when you’re trying to pass the guard and your partner turns to stop you securing side control
If you can reach the back, you can attack your opponent with relative impunity, whereas there is almost nothing they can attack in return. There are many submissions available to you here, especially chokes, both with and without the gi. This is true both for the orthodox back control in the picture above, as well as the turtle.
However, while a number of the same submissions can be attempted from the turtle, it can be difficult to break the turtle open. To really attack, you ideally want to get your hooks in place, after which you can transition to a more standard back control.
There are also offensive options directly from the turtle, such as the iconic clock choke. We’ll also be considering some more advanced options like the crucifix, a very powerful position if you’re able to secure it.