🎯 BJJ Back Takes: Getting to the Back

Why Back Control is the Highest-Value Position

Back control scores maximum points (4) and is the position from which the rear naked choke — the highest-percentage submission in BJJ — is finished. Most high-level BJJ game plans build toward back control because opponents must choose between defending submissions and escaping position; they cannot do both effectively.

Back Takes from Turtle

Gift Wrap Truck Back Take

From behind turtle: arm around neck (no choke yet), other arm under arm, lift opponent's far arm up and behind their back (gift wrap), take the back from there. Excellent when opponent defends with arms flat.

Clock Choke / Back Exposure

Circle around turtle opponent, threaten clock choke from the side. As they defend, they often expose their back. Transition immediately when the back appears.

Back Takes from Guard

Triangle-to-Back

From failed triangle: as opponent postures out, use the angle to swing to the back, maintaining leg control. High percentage when triangle is defended by posturing up.

Arm Drag to Back

From open guard: grip opponent's wrist, arm drag to expose their armpit, swing around to the back while keeping wrist control. Classic back take used at all levels.

Hook Placement and Control

Both hooks in (heels inside thighs), seat belt grip (over-under control of torso). Keep the back flat — do not sit back. Weight forward drives them into your hooks and makes escape harder.