### Leg Scissor Escape The Leg Scissor Escape is a fundamental technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu used primarily to escape the **Side Control** position. It efficiently creates space and shifts leverage to regain control or transition to a more favorable position. #### Step-by-Step Instructions: 1. **Setup the Framework:** - Begin from the **Side Control** bottom position. Your opponent has their weight on you, and their body is perpendicular to yours. - Ensure that you have frames in place: one arm should be positioned across your opponent's neck (near-side arm) and the other on their hip. 2. **Establish Base:** - Position your feet flat on the mat, your legs bent, and slightly apart. This will provide a stable base. 3. **Create Leverage with Knee and Elbow:** - Raise your near-side knee and bring it close to your chest. This will make it harder for your opponent to drop their weight onto you. - At the same time, push against their hip with your far-side elbow, and orient your upper body slightly away from them. 4. **Shift Your Hips:** - With a quick movement, use the pressure from your elbow and knee to shift your hips away from your opponent. This will create space and make room for your next move. 5. **Insert Your Knee:** - As your hips move away, slide your near-side knee in between your opponent's body and yours. - Aim to place your knee against your opponent’s stomach or chest. 6. **Execute the Scissor:** - Once your knee is in position, use it as a lever while pushing with your far-side arm. - Simultaneously, scissor your legs by crossing your supporting leg under the knee that's inside. - This motion should elevate your opponent slightly and tilt their weight off-balance. 7. **Regain Guard or Transition:** - With the created space, work swiftly to pull your far-side leg through, aiming for a full guard or open guard position. - Alternatively, transition to another advantageous position like a single leg or even butterfly guard if the opportunity presents itself. #### Tips: - Balance your strength between your elbow and knee; too much force in one area can lead to errors. - Timing is key to prevent your opponent from shutting down the escape – aim to perform swiftly after creating adequate space. #### Common Mistakes: - Not framing adequately, leaving space for the opponent to settle their weight. - Failing to coordinate the knee and elbow motion to create enough leverage. #### Conclusion: The Leg Scissor Escape is an essential tool in a BJJ practitioner’s arsenal, enabling effective recovery from one of the most challenging positions. Practice it regularly to ensure smooth transitions and regain positional advantage.