Granby Roll

The Granby Roll is a dynamic, rotational movement in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and wrestling that allows a practitioner to escape, transition, or recover a position. It involves rolling over the shoulders in a controlled, inverted motion, often to create space or exploit Angles to evade an opponent’s control. The Granby Roll emphasizes Inversion, Momentum, and precise Hip Movement.

Purpose of the Granby Roll

Escapes

Guard Recovery

Transitions

  • Smoothly moves into dominant positions like De La Riva or Inversion setups for sweeps or submissions.

Avoiding Pressure

  • Neutralizes heavy Pressure by redirecting force and creating distance.

Step-by-Step Execution

Starting Position

  • Begin in Turtle Guard or with your shoulders on the mat in a defensive posture.
  • Tuck your chin to protect your neck and maintain a compact body shape.

Initiate the Roll

  • Post one hand on the mat or grip your opponent if needed.
  • Drive your hips upward and begin to roll diagonally over one shoulder.

Hip Rotation

  • Allow your hips to lead the motion, turning over as your legs swing in the opposite direction.
  • Engage your Core and keep your body tight for control.

Inversion

  • Roll fully over your shoulders in a smooth arc, avoiding pressure on your neck.
  • Your head should never bear weight; the motion should flow through your shoulders and hips.

Exit Position

  • Land facing your opponent, either transitioning to Guard, a sweeping position, or resetting your Base.
  • Maintain strong posture and readiness for a follow-up movement.

Key Principles

Momentum

  • Use your hips and legs to generate smooth, controlled momentum throughout the roll.

Angles

  • Roll diagonally to ensure you avoid predictable lines of attack and stay defensive.

Inversion

  • Engage the inversion mechanic to maximize efficiency and maintain control.

Tightness

  • Stay compact to prevent your opponent from exploiting gaps during the motion.

Common Uses of the Granby Roll

Escapes

Guard Recovery

Dynamic Transitions

  • Flow into sweeps or entries for advanced techniques like Berimbolo or Inversion attacks.

Sweeps and Submissions

Drilling Tips for the Granby Roll

Solo Drills

  • Practice the roll in isolation on a soft surface, focusing on clean, controlled movement over your shoulders.
  • Drill alternating shoulder rolls to ensure ambidexterity.

Partner Drills

  • Work with a partner controlling you from Turtle Guard or Side Control and use the Granby Roll to escape.
  • Combine the roll with sweeps or Guard entries for practical scenarios.

Flow Drills

Live Sparring

  • Use the roll in controlled sparring to escape or transition, paying attention to timing and follow-up actions.

Key Mistakes to Avoid

Rolling Over the Neck

  • Always roll over the shoulder to avoid injury.

Insufficient Momentum

  • A weak roll will leave you exposed and unable to create space effectively.

Flat Body Position

  • Staying too loose or spread out reduces control and exposes vulnerabilities.

Rushing the Movement

  • Precision and control are more important than speed, especially in live scenarios.
Tip

The Granby Roll is a versatile and essential movement that opens up many opportunities. Drill it consistently to develop confidence and fluency, especially in escapes and guard recovery.

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