How to Do the Torreando with Leg Pin in BJJ
The torreando with leg pin is a variation where after pushing the legs to one side, you pin the top leg to the mat with your hand while passing. This prevents the bottom player from recovering guard by holding the leg in place as you move around to side control.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Execute the standard torreando push
- 2 After pushing legs to one side, pin the top leg to the mat with one hand
- 3 Circle to the other side while maintaining the leg pin
- 4 The pin prevents any reguard or hip escape attempt
- 5 Release the pin only after securing side control
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Pinning the wrong leg
- ⚠️ Not maintaining enough pressure on the pinned leg
- ⚠️ Releasing the pin before fully establishing side control
- ⚠️ Circling too slowly while maintaining the pin
- ⚠️ Forgetting to secure upper body control after releasing
🔄 Variations
- → Cross-body pin
- → With collar grip and pin
- → Pin to knee on belly
- → Double leg pin
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Hip escape before the pin
- → Push the pinning hand off
- → Invert before the pin
- → Counter-attack the extended arm
Track Your Torreando with Leg Pin Progress
Log every time you practice the Torreando with Leg Pin and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
Related Techniques
More Guard Passes
View all →Knee Cut Pass
The knee cut pass (knee slice) is one of the most versatile and high-percentage guard passes in BJJ....
Double Under Pass
The double under pass stacks your opponent by getting both arms under their legs. It's a pressure-ba...
Torreando Pass
The torreando (bullfighter) pass is a speed pass where you grip the legs and throw them to one side ...
Leg Drag Pass
The leg drag is a highly effective pass where you drag your opponent's leg across your body while ci...
Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Torreando with Leg Pin? ▼
The Torreando with Leg Pin 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 Torreando with Leg Pin 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 Torreando with Leg Pin? ▼
The Torreando with Leg Pin is typically executed from open guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.