What is Turtle in BJJ?
Also known as: All fours, Referees position
Quick Definition
A defensive position on hands and knees, protecting your neck and limbs.
Full Explanation
Turtle is a defensive position where you're on your hands and knees, tucked in to protect your neck and limbs. You end up here when your guard gets passed or you're taken down without giving up back control. While protective, it's dangerous to stay here because your opponent can attack your back or attempt chokes. From turtle, you should either escape (sit out, Granby roll, stand up) or reguard. Wrestling has extensive turtle attacks and defenses.
Examples in Context
"He turtled up after I stuffed his shot"
"I need to work on my turtle escapes"
Related Terms
Back Control
The most dominant position in BJJ, controlling your opponent from behind with hooks in.
Granby Roll
A shoulder roll used to escape bad positions or recover guard, named after Granby High School wrestling.
Sit-Out
An escape from turtle or bottom position by swinging your leg through and turning.
Front Headlock
A controlling position with your arm around the opponent's head from the front.
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