### Technique: Granby Roll --- The Granby Roll is a grappling maneuver used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) to escape from bottom positions and create openings for sweeps or submissions. It is lauded for its effectiveness in transitioning and escaping under pressure scenarios. The technique is named after Granby High School in Norfolk, Virginia, known for its wrestling program. ### Japanese Name: - N/A ### Position: - **Turtle** - **Side Control (Bottom)** - **Standing** ### Granby Roll from Turtle Position (Step-by-Step Instructions): 1. **Initial Setup:** - Start in the "Turtle" position with your elbows kept close to your knees and your chin tucked. - Constantly stay aware of your opponent's grips—either on your body or by cupping your arms to control you. 2. **Create Space & Post:** - Using your arms, push backward against your opponent’s grips to create just enough space. - If possible, use your head as an additional post that rests on the mat, assisting in leverage. 3. **Roll Position:** - Roll your shoulders forward, keeping your legs tucked. - Initiate the roll by swiveling your hips to touch your back shoulders on the mat. 4. **Body Rotation:** - Rotate your body similar to a cartwheel in motion with your head leading. - Make sure to keep your entire body compact to increase efficiency and speed. 5. **Completing the Roll:** - As you roll, allow your legs to freely swivel overhead to create momentum. - Aim to end with your kneeling position or standing position fronting the opponent or use your legs to hook for a guard transition. 6. **Escape or Transition:** - Quickly assess the new situation; choose to transition to an advantageous guard or stand up. - If the opportunity arises, consider immediate attacks like a double leg takedown or guard recovery. ### Tips for Effective Execution: - **Maintain Tightness:** Keeping a compact posture ensures minimal exposure to your opponent’s attempts to thwart the move. - **Fluid Motion:** Think of the Granby Roll as a continuous movement; avoid stopping mid-roll as this opens moments of vulnerability. - **Practice Together:** The Granby Roll is best mastered through dynamic drills and sparring to adapt instinctively. --- The Granby Roll is a versatile move—once mastered, it frees BJJ practitioners from disadvantageous spots and is an elegant way to transition directly into offensive postures.