🏃 Movements

What is Backward Roll in BJJ?

Quick Definition

A tumbling movement rolling backward over your shoulder.

Full Explanation

The backward roll is a foundational movement where you roll backward over your shoulder, coming up to your base. It develops body awareness and is used in warm-ups. In technique application, backward rolls appear in guard retention, escape sequences, and some sweep finishes. The ability to backward roll smoothly helps with general mat awareness and comfort in scramble situations.

Examples in Context

"Backward rolls are part of the standard BJJ warm-up"

"I used a backward roll to recover when he tried to pass"

Related Terms

Forward Roll

A tumbling movement rolling forward over your shoulder, used in warm-ups and transitions.

Granby Roll

A shoulder roll used to escape bad positions or recover guard, named after Granby High School wrestling.

Warm-Up

Preparatory exercises before training, often including movement drills.

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