Introduction to the Stand-Up Wheel Pass
Sarah Benjamin introduces a fundamental guard passing sequence from the butterfly guard position. This technique, also known as the circle pass or backstep, is effective for controlling pace and creating immediate forward pressure during rolling.
Establishing Grip Control
The pass begins with two critical grips: a high collar grip on the same-side lapel and a cross-side pant cuff grip. These grips provide the foundation for directional control and are maintained regardless of the opponent's defensive responses.
The Steering Wheel Mechanics
The instructor executes a push-pull rotational motion similar to turning a steering wheel, rotating the opponent's shoulder toward the mat while lifting their hips off the ground. This movement alone is insufficient; aggressive forward pressure with head and body contact is essential for success.
Driving Forward with Head Position
The practitioner maintains a low head position at the opponent's sternum while driving forward aggressively. As the opponent turns into the passer to defend, continued forward motion and hip pressure prevent guard retention and facilitate the final pass.
Hip Placement for Pass Completion
The final stage involves placing the passer's hip against the opponent's hip, similar to leg drag and over-under mechanics. Once the opponent is rotated and hips are controlled, the passer transitions to lateral pressure to complete the pass.
Alternative Finishing Technique
A higher-level variation utilizes the opponent's turning motion as a redirection opportunity. As the opponent rotates into the passer, the passer switches sides by crossing their leg over and executing a leg drag pass from the new angle.
Versatility Across Guard Variations
The fundamental body mechanics of the stand-up wheel pass translate effectively to multiple guard positions, including lasso guard, spider guard, and daily heever variations. This technical foundation makes the technique valuable across diverse rolling scenarios.
Steering Wheel Pass vs Butterfly Guard
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to the Stand-Up Wheel Pass
- •Establishing Grip Control
- •The Steering Wheel Mechanics
- •Driving Forward with Head Position
TURNING PASS VS BUTTERFLY GUARD // In this video I go over an effective pass from the butterfly guard. The steering wheel pass is one of the simplest and most dynamic guard passes against butterfly guard. If you missed any of my last videos check them out below: Easy and Effective Butterfly Guard Passes - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHvIxkb5hY4&t=9s MUST KNOW no gi knee on belly chokes - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LQMePQVPJc&t=1s MUST KNOW Gi Chokes From Knee On Belly - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9cFBy0jw0Q&t=1s MUST KNOW Knee On Belly Attacks - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-J0JSSClrw Low knee shield - Stopping the leg weave / sandwich pass - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWax7ImmjPI DESTROYING The Low Knee Shield With Giancarlo Bodoni -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Me_RuAoICQ&t=2s Low Knee Shield Simple and Effective Sweeps - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYRFxHSRFIY Low Knee Shield Basics - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdrVdBnPRTE Reverse De La Riva To Leg Drag & Truck - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHEjvNvTiY8&t=4s Reverse De La Riva Basics - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDg3f4lIxro&t=2s Ankle Picks From Everywhere - https://www.youtube. /watch?v=sinAMBKt6bk&t=1s Closed Guard Escapes - How To ALWAYS Break The Guard - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pONZEJANXys&t=2s Standing In Closed Guard - Controlling The Sleeve & Connecting Guard Pass - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9-bDLO7vFI&t=15s I am a Marcelo Garcia Brown Belt, Bernardo Faria Academy Instructor and avid Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitor. Thanks for visiting my channel! Don't forget to LIKE & SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE! OSS!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about stand-up wheel pass?
This video covers introduction to the stand-up wheel pass, establishing grip control, the steering wheel mechanics. It provides detailed instruction from Aaron Benzrihem bjj.
How long does it take to learn stand-up wheel 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.
What are the key details for finishing stand-up wheel pass?
A higher-level variation utilizes the opponent's turning motion as a redirection opportunity. As the opponent rotates into the passer, the passer switches sides by crossing their leg over and executing a leg drag pass from the new angle.




