This pain often stems from overextending your arm and shoulder joint in an attempt to create space. When escaping side control, focus on driving your hips into your opponent and creating a tight frame with your forearm against their neck or chest, rather than reaching your arm out and exposing your shoulder to a potential Armbar or shoulder lock.

Against a larger opponent, prioritize maintaining a strong, active guard by keeping your knees tucked towards your chest and your feet on their hips or biceps, creating a constant pressure. Utilize your legs to control their posture by "squeezing" your knees together and pushing their hips away, preventing them from establishing a solid base to pass.

To effectively shrimp, initiate by flattening your back to the mat and driving your hips away from your opponent by extending one leg while simultaneously bringing the other knee towards your chest. This creates a triangular space with your body, allowing you to pivot your hips and generate forward momentum to reposition yourself, rather than simply sliding your hips.