How to Do the North-South Escape in BJJ
Escaping north-south position before the choke or kimura comes. Timing and hip movement are critical.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Frame on their hips to create space
- 2 Bridge and turn toward one side
- 3 Bring your knees in as you turn
- 4 Shoot your hips away and recover guard
- 5 Don't let them transition to side control
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Staying flat
- ⚠️ Not framing
- ⚠️ Turning the wrong way
- ⚠️ Letting them settle
- ⚠️ Giving up position for worse position
🔄 Variations
- → To turtle
- → To knees
- → Invert escape
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Heavy hips
- → Transition to kimura
- → Move with them
Track Your North-South Escape Progress
Log every time you practice the North-South Escape and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime, the free BJJ tracker, builds muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the North-South Escape? ▼
The North-South Escape is typically introduced at the blue belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Building a technical foundation. Developing a guard game and understanding of timing.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The North-South Escape works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the North-South Escape? ▼
The North-South Escape is typically executed from bottom north south. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.