How to Do the Crab Ride to Back Take in BJJ
The crab ride uses your feet to hook inside the opponent's thighs while controlling from behind their turtle. This creates a stable platform to work toward back control with hooks.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Hook both feet inside their thighs from behind
- 2 Control their upper body with hands
- 3 Use feet to control their hip movement
- 4 Transition from crab ride to hooks in
- 5 Secure seatbelt as hooks are established
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Feet not hooked deep enough
- ⚠️ No upper body control
- ⚠️ Staying in crab ride too long without transitioning
- ⚠️ Losing feet hooks during transition
- ⚠️ Not securing seatbelt
🔄 Variations
- → Crab ride to full hooks
- → Crab ride with belt grip
- → Crab ride to body triangle
- → Baby bolo from crab ride
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Sit back on their hooks
- → Stand to shake off crab ride
- → Granby roll from crab ride
- → Sit out before hooks set
Track Your Crab Ride to Back Take Progress
Log every time you practice the Crab Ride to Back Take and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Crab Ride to Back Take? ▼
The Crab Ride to Back Take is typically introduced at the purple belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Refining your personal game. Developing expertise in preferred positions.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Crab Ride to Back Take 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 Crab Ride to Back Take? ▼
The Crab Ride to Back Take is typically executed from turtle top. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.