Introduction to Shin-to-Shin Position

The shin-to-shin position has become essential in modern submission grappling. Approximately 70% of passing attempts at high levels involve the opponent sliding their right knee across, making this defensive position critically important to master.

Positioning Fundamentals

The defender establishes shin-to-shin by placing their own shin across the opponent's passing leg. Proper positioning requires the defender's knee on the outside and foot on the inside, maintaining close contact.

Attack One: Wrestling-Style Leg Drag (Standing Opponent)

From shin-to-shin against a standing opponent, the defender hugs the leg and falls to their right side while kicking the opponent's leg upward. Once the opponent's body rotates away, the defender collects the ankle and executes an inside low single takedown similar to wrestling techniques.

Attack Two: Single Leg X-Guard (Standing Opponent)

When the opponent has a strong base, the defender transitions into single leg X-guard by hooking the leg upward and planting with their heel to the opponent's hip. From this position, the defender can execute sweeps, ankle locks, and additional attacks while controlling the opponent's leg.

Attack Three: Deep Half Guard (Combat Base)

When the opponent is in combat base with knees up, the defender can transition to deep half guard by falling to their side, kicking their leg up, and rotating 90 degrees. The defender tucks both arms under the opponent's leg while maintaining control of the foot, creating a protected position.

Attack Four: Hook Sweep from Shin-to-Shin (Combat Base)

From shin-to-shin against a combat base opponent, the defender grabs the opponent's wrist and executes a high hook sweep by kicking upward at the instep. This leveraged technique causes the opponent's knee and hip to rotate, allowing the defender to pass and establish top position.

Training Recommendation

Practitioners should incorporate at least three of these four techniques into regular training sessions. Mastery of shin-to-shin positions ensures readiness when opponents attempt their primary passing strategy.

4 Awesome Attacks From Shin To Shin

The Grappling Academy

Shin-to-Shin Pass

2 min read·7 key moments·PT5M10S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Shin-to-Shin Position
•Positioning Fundamentals
•Attack One: Wrestling-Style Leg Drag (Standing Opponent)
•Attack Two: Single Leg X-Guard (Standing Opponent)

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Related Techniques

Butterfly Pass Floating Pass Half Mount Pass Half Stack Pass Lemon Squeeze Pass

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about shin-to-shin pass?

This video covers introduction to shin-to-shin position, positioning fundamentals, attack one: wrestling-style leg drag (standing opponent). It provides detailed instruction from The Grappling Academy.

How long does it take to learn shin-to-shin pass?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.