### Technique: Rolling Back Take The rolling back take is a flashy and effective maneuver that allows a practitioner to transition from a neutral or inferior position to dominant back control. It's often used as a surprise attack and can be both a crowd-pleaser and a high-percentage move when executed correctly. ### Japanese Name N/A ### Position - **Butterfly Guard** ### Top or Bottom - **Bottom** ### Step-by-Step Instructions #### 1. **Starting in Butterfly Guard** - Begin seated on the mat with your opponent kneeling in front of you. - Your legs should be underneath your opponent's hips, with your insteps hooked on their thighs. - Maintain a solid upper body connection by using an overhook or underhook, depending on your preference. #### 2. **Creating Off-Balance** - Lift your hips slightly off the mat to engage your legs and create distance. - Use your hooks to tilt your opponent to one side, making them post a hand on the mat for base. - Timing is crucial here; anticipate their reaction and prepare to transition. #### 3. **Rolling Under Your Opponent** - Drop your inside knee to the mat and use the momentum to roll underneath them. - Dive your head and shoulders under their opposite armpit (the side they are now basing their weight). - As you roll, ensure that your hooks and the initial arm control is maintained. #### 4. **Taking the Back** - As you roll through, you'll end up with your back on the mat and your opponent rolling above you. - Extend your legs upwards, further pulling them over and past you. - Use your arms to grip across their upper back or torso to maintain your position. #### 5. **Securing the Position** - As your opponent flips over you, turn your hips and body to follow them, looking to plant your chest against their back. - Establish seatbelt grips or traditional back-control grips (with one arm over their shoulder and the other under the armpit). - Fit your hooks in if they aren't already established. #### 6. **Maintaining Back Control** - Once your hooks and grip are secure, focus on maintaining tight control. - Keep your chest glued to their back and maintain constant pressure. - Consider transitioning to submission attempts (like the rear-naked choke) or simply work on controlling and wearing them down. ### Tips for Success - Timing is essential; look for the right moment when your opponent's balance is compromised. - Maintain a solid connection throughout the roll to avoid losing control. - Practice the movement repeatedly to build muscle memory and fluidity. The rolling back take is a dynamic and strategic maneuver that adds a powerful option to any grappler's arsenal. Practice against resisting opponents to develop confidence and precision with the technique.