GB Technique: Solving The Turtle

This week on GB Technique we are looking at some strategies for solving the turtle.
The turtle – when employed by a skillful opponent – can be very difficult to crack. The turtled person defends their neck, blocks you from putting in your hooks, and has a strong base. If you don’t know how to take advantage of this position, you lose your opportunity to gain the upper hand in the match and allow your opponent to advance their own position out of danger. You’ve missed your opportunity!
Let’s take a look at how some Gracie Barra instructors control, break down, and ultimately get the finish from the turtle
Taking the opponents back from the turtle
From the GB2 with Prof Rodrigo Fajardo we learn how to get our hooks on the turtled opponent and finish with the highest percentage choke from the back mount
Collar choke from the turtle
Experienced opponents will transition to the turtle when you threaten to pass to side control. This choke variation is available during the transition if you are prepared for the opportunity. Prof Victor shows the details from his GB2 module on GB Online.
Turtle breakdown to side control and Shotgun armbar – No-Gi
In this situation, Prof Marcio Feitosa does not have the lapel grips available and must break the opponent’s solid defense in the turtle
See also on GB Technique:
GB Technique:  Passing Different Guard Styles
Writer: Mark Mullen, Gracie Barra Black Belt