Feed Lapel Grip

The Feed Lapel Grip is a strategic grip in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that involves passing (or "feeding") your opponent’s lapel from one hand to the other, creating a strong connection for controlling their posture, movement, and Center of Gravity. This grip is most commonly used in gi scenarios, where the fabric provides the necessary friction and security. The Feed Lapel Grip is a versatile tool for setting up submissions, sweeps, and positional advancements.

Key Features of the Feed Lapel Grip

Feeding Motion

  • One hand grabs the lapel and passes it to the other hand, ensuring a tighter and more secure grip.
  • The grip is typically fed under or over the opponent's arm or body, depending on the situation.

Strong Connection

  • Tightens the lapel and creates significant control over the opponent’s posture and movement.

Grip Position

  • The lapel can be fed for various applications, such as around their back, across their neck, or under their arm, depending on the goal.

Uses in BJJ

Posture Control

Submissions

Sweeps

Guard Passing Defense

  • When the lapel is fed under their leg or body, it can restrict their hip movement, making it harder for them to pass your Guard.

Control and Transition

  • Creates a tight connection, preventing the opponent from escaping while you transition to Back Control, Side Control, or other dominant positions.

Advantages

  • Offers exceptional control over the opponent’s posture and movement.
  • Creates a strong connection that limits their ability to counter or escape.
  • Opens up high-percentage submission and sweep opportunities.
  • Versatile and can be used in multiple positions and scenarios.

Tips for Effective Use

Feed the Lapel Tight

  • Ensure the lapel is pulled snugly when passing it to the receiving hand to maximize control.

Secure the Grip

  • Use your fingers to maintain a firm grip on the lapel, avoiding slack that could weaken the connection.

Combine with Body Mechanics

Adjust Based on Position

  • Feed the lapel under the arm, across the neck, or around the back, depending on the submission, sweep, or control you’re aiming for.

Common Mistakes

Loose Lapel Feed

  • Allowing slack in the lapel during the feed reduces control and can allow the opponent to escape or counter.

Overcommitting

  • Spending too much time establishing the grip without advancing position can lead to stalling or missed opportunities.

Ignoring Posture

  • Failing to control your opponent’s posture while feeding the lapel can leave you vulnerable to counters or guard passes.

Grip Fatigue

  • Over-squeezing or holding the grip for too long without progressing can lead to hand fatigue.

Variations and Combinations

Feed Lapel to Choke

Feed Lapel for Back Take

  • Feed the lapel across their body to secure tight control while transitioning to Back Control.

Feed Lapel for Guard Control

  • Pass the lapel under their leg to trap their hips and prevent Guard Passing.

Feed Lapel to Sweep

  • Combine the grip with a leg or hip motion to execute sweeps like the Flower Sweep.

The Feed Lapel Grip is a highly effective control tool in gi-based Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. By mastering this technique, you can disrupt your opponent’s posture, limit their mobility, and set up a wide range of offensive and defensive techniques. Its versatility and strength make it a critical addition to any grappler’s skillset.