The Bridge and Roll Escape, also known as the Upa Escape, is a fundamental Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) technique primarily used to escape from the Mount position. This escape is perfect for transitioning from a defensive position on the ground to a more advantageous one. Here's how to execute the Bridge and Roll Escape effectively: ## Step-by-Step Instructions ### 1. **Assess and Secure ** - **Position**: Begin in the Mount position with your opponent straddling your torso. - **Protected Posture**: Protect your neck from chokes by tucking your chin or using your hands for added defense. ### 2. **Trapping the Arm ** - Choose the side you wish to roll towards. - Use the hand on your chosen side to *trap your opponent's wrist* on the corresponding side. Grab their wrist and bring it into your chest. ### 3. **Trapping the Foot ** - Simultaneously, use the foot on the same side to *trap your opponent's ankle*. This can be achieved by "stepping over" their foot using your foot. ### 4. **Create a Bridge ** - With your body prepared and the limbs secured (arm and foot trapped), create a *bridge* by lifting your hips violently and quickly. - Dig your feet into the ground, and aim to push your hips as high as possible. ### 5. **Execute the Upa (Roll) ** - Immediately following the bridge, roll your trapped shoulder towards the opposite side. - This movement forces your opponent to lose balance and fall over, enabling you to turn them over onto their back. ### 6. **Transition to a Dominant Position ** - As you complete the roll and your opponent's back hits the mat, use the momentum to follow them up. - Secure a dominant position such as the guard, half guard, or side control, depending on how your opponent reacts or their recovery attempts. ### Key Notes: - **Timing and Explosiveness**: The effectiveness of the Bridge and Roll relies on executing the movements with speed and power. - **Focus on Control**: Ensure the trapped limbs (arm and foot) are held securely to prevent your opponent from posting out and regaining their base. - **Practice**: Repetition is crucial for perfecting this escape, allowing you to execute it instinctively under pressure. Mastering the Bridge and Roll Escape opens up numerous positional opportunities and is an essential tool for any practitioner wanting to develop their defensive BJJ skills and improve their overall game.