Inversion
Inversion is a core movement mechanic in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, characterized by rolling onto your shoulders with your hips elevated, often leading to an upside-down position. This technique is used to create new Angles, recover Guard, or set up dynamic attacks like Berimbolo, Leg Locks, or sweeps. It is highly versatile and commonly employed in modern, open-guard games.
Purpose of Inversion
- Regain or maintain Open Guard or De La Riva when your opponent is attempting a Guard Pass.
Dynamic Transitions
- Create new opportunities to attack, sweep, or take the back.
Escaping Pressure
- Redirect your opponent’s Pressure by using inversion to shift your position or avoid control.
Advanced Guard Techniques
- Foundation for movements like Berimbolo or Kiss of the Dragon Sweep.
Step-by-Step Execution
Starting Position
- Typically, begin in Guard, such as Butterfly Guard or De La Riva.
- Establish Frames or grips for connection and control.
Engage Core
- Tighten your Core to lift your hips off the mat while rolling onto your shoulders.
- Keep your neck safe by tucking your chin and ensuring the weight is distributed across your shoulders, not your neck.
Roll onto Shoulders
- Shift your weight back and elevate your hips, keeping your legs active and mobile.
- Your body should form a stable, upside-down position with your feet and legs ready to engage.
Create Angles
- Use your legs and grips to manipulate your opponent’s balance or positioning.
- Pivot your hips to one side or the other to create sharp angles for sweeps or entries.
Exit and Transition
- Roll out of the inverted position to transition into Guard, Back Control, or another dominant position.
- Maintain control with your grips and Frames during the transition.
Key Principles
Core Engagement
- Use your core to stabilize your hips and maintain control while inverted.
- Sharp pivots during inversion create openings for sweeps, attacks, or escapes.
- Use your legs and grips to maintain distance or manipulate your opponent’s posture.
- Stay connected to your opponent, using your feet, hooks, or grips to guide the movement.
Common Uses of Inversion
- Transition into Open Guard or De La Riva when your opponent pressures forward.
Sweeps
- Essential for techniques like Kiss of the Dragon Sweep or Baby Bolo Sweep.
- Transition from De La Riva to the Berimbolo for Back Control.
Escaping Pressure
- Roll out of Side Control or Turtle Guard to recover a neutral or offensive position.
Drilling Tips for Inversion
Solo Drills
- Practice rolling backward onto your shoulders and pivoting your hips.
- Focus on smooth transitions from the inverted position to a seated or standing position.
Partner Drills
- Begin in Guard and use inversion to retain De La Riva or Butterfly Guard when your partner applies Pressure.
- Drill transitions like Berimbolo or sweeps to build practical application.
Flow Drills
- Combine inversion with movements like Granby Roll, Shrimp, or Backward Roll for dynamic sequences.
Positional Sparring
- Start in Open Guard or Butterfly Guard and use inversion to attack or retain position while your partner applies pressure.
Key Mistakes to Avoid
Improper Neck Alignment
- Rolling over your neck instead of your shoulders can cause injury.
Lack of Core Engagement
- Failing to lift your hips or control your body leads to sloppy movement.
Flat Hips
- Not fully elevating your hips reduces effectiveness and limits transitions.
Poor Connection
- Losing grips or failing to use hooks during inversion can lead to counterattacks or loss of position.
Tip
Begin with slow, controlled practice to master the mechanics of inversion. As your confidence grows, integrate it into live training for guard retention, sweeps, and dynamic attacks. Precision and timing are more valuable than speed when inverting.
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