aliases:
  - shallow underhooks
  - Shallow Underhooks

Shallow Underhook

The Shallow Underhook is a variation of the underhook grip in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and grappling, where your arm threads under the opponent's arm but does not reach deeply around their torso or back. Instead, your arm controls the area closer to their armpit or shoulder. While not as dominant as a Deep Underhook, the shallow underhook is versatile and can be used effectively in specific situations to maintain control, create space, or set up attacks.

Key Features of the Shallow Underhook

Arm Position

Your arm threads under your opponent’s arm but remains closer to their armpit or shoulder rather than wrapping around their torso.

Grip Options

Use your hand to grab the opponent’s tricep, shoulder, or gi fabric (in gi scenarios).
Alternatively, use your forearm to block their arm or create a frame.

Connection

The shallow underhook emphasizes Distance Management and Angles rather than full control over the torso.

Uses in BJJ

Guard Retention and Recovery

In Half Guard or Z Guard, the shallow underhook helps you maintain or recover your position by controlling their arm and preventing them from flattening you out.

Space Creation

Allows you to create space for hip movement or transitions, such as getting to Butterfly Guard or Closed Guard.

Sweeps and Transitions

Sets up sweeps like the Coyote Sweep or Butterfly Sweep by giving you leverage over their upper body.
Provides a pathway to transition into a Deep Underhook or Underhook Escape.

Positional Layering

Can be used to establish or maintain positional dominance in scrambles or during passing attempts.

Advantages

Easier and faster to establish compared to a Deep Underhook.
Useful in tight spaces where a deep grip is not feasible.
Provides flexibility to transition into other grips or setups.
Works well defensively to prevent your opponent from establishing Crossface pressure or flattening you.

Tips for Effective Use

Maintain Tightness

Keep your arm snug under theirs to prevent them from pummeling or regaining control.

Combine with Hip Movement

Use your shallow underhook in conjunction with Shrimp or Bridge movements to maximize effectiveness.

Angle Creation

Focus on using the shallow underhook to generate angles, making it harder for your opponent to flatten or pressure you.

Transition Ready

Be prepared to transition to a Deep Underhook or other grips as opportunities arise.

Common Mistakes

Loose Connection

Leaving too much space allows your opponent to counter with a Crossface or whizzer.

Relying Solely on the Grip

The shallow underhook is not as strong as the Deep Underhook and requires effective Hip Movement and Angles to complement it.

Overcommitting

Driving too far forward without proper Base can expose you to sweeps or submissions like guillotines.

Neglecting Opponent's Posture

Allowing them to maintain strong posture reduces the effectiveness of the shallow underhook.

Variations and Combinations

Shallow Underhook to Deep Underhook

Transition into a deeper grip when space or positioning allows.

Shallow Underhook in Half Guard

Use the grip to prevent pressure and set up sweeps or back takes.

Shallow Underhook and Frames

Combine with a strong Frames to create space and transition to offensive setups.

The shallow underhook is a strategic grip that emphasizes control, space creation, and flexibility. While not as controlling as a Deep Underhook, it plays an essential role in Problem Solving during scrambles, guard work, and defensive scenarios. By mastering it, you can enhance your ability to manage Distance and Connections effectively.