Reverse Grip

The Reverse Grip in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu refers to a grip where your hand grips a part of your opponent’s gi or body with your palm facing upward or in a "reversed" position compared to the standard palm-down or natural hand placement. This grip is used to create unique leverage, control, and angles for sweeps, submissions, guard retention, or positional advancements.

Key Features of the Reverse Grip

Hand Position

The hand grips the gi or limb with the palm facing upward or in a non-traditional orientation.
Often used on sleeves, lapels, or pant fabric, depending on the technique.

Leverage Focus

Provides an unconventional angle for applying tension or manipulating the opponent’s posture and balance.

Dynamic Control

Allows for unique transitions and setups that are harder for the opponent to anticipate or counter.

Uses in BJJ

Guard Work

In Spider Guard, the Reverse Grip on a sleeve creates tension for pulling and sweeping motions.
In De La Riva or Reverse De La Riva, it helps off-balance the opponent and control their posture.

Sweeps

Facilitates sweeps by redirecting the opponent’s balance, such as in Balloon Sweep or Butterfly Sweep setups.

Submissions

Sets up gi chokes like the Loop Choke, where the Reverse Grip on the lapel positions the fabric perfectly for a choke.
Can be used in arm-isolation submissions like the Kimura or Triangle Choke.

Takedowns

Provides leverage for trips or off-balancing during standing exchanges, often paired with a lapel or sleeve grip.

Guard Retention and Recovery

Prevents the opponent from stabilizing or advancing during Guard Passing attempts by using a Reverse Grip on their pant leg or sleeve to redirect pressure.

Advantages

Creates unconventional angles that make it harder for the opponent to anticipate or counter.
Provides unique leverage and tension for controlling the opponent’s Base and posture.
Versatile, applicable in both offensive and defensive scenarios.

Tips for Effective Use

Secure the Grip

Ensure the Reverse Grip is firm and tight to prevent the opponent from stripping it.

Combine with Body Mechanics

Use Angles, Frames, and Hip Movement to complement the grip and maximize its effectiveness.

Transition Fluidly

Be ready to switch to standard grips or adjust the Reverse Grip as the situation evolves.

Apply Directional Pressure

Use the unique leverage of the Reverse Grip to pull, push, or redirect the opponent’s movement.

Common Mistakes

Loose Grip

A weak grip reduces control and allows the opponent to break free or counter.

Overcommitting

Relying too heavily on the Reverse Grip without advancing position can lead to stalling or missed opportunities.

Ignoring Posture

Failing to maintain your own Posture or Base can expose you to sweeps or attacks.

Grip Fatigue

Over-squeezing or holding the Reverse Grip for too long can lead to unnecessary hand fatigue.

Variations and Combinations

Reverse Lapel Grip

Use a palm-up grip on the lapel to set up gi chokes like the Cross Collar Choke or Loop Choke.

Reverse Sleeve Grip

Commonly used in Spider Guard or Lasso Guard to create unique tension for sweeps or transitions.

Reverse Pant Grip

Grip the pants with a palm-up orientation to prevent guard passes or off-balance the opponent during sweeps.

Double Reverse Grips

Use Reverse Grips on both sleeves or lapels for setups like gi chokes or Spider Guard control.

The Reverse Grip is a versatile and creative tool in gi-based Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. By mastering its application, you can develop unique setups and leverage points to control your opponent, execute sweeps, and set up submissions. Its unconventional angles make it a valuable addition to your overall game.