The Nelson Family of Submissions

The Nelson family consists of four variations: quarter, half, three-quarter, and full Nelson. While the full Nelson is rarely used in wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners effectively employ the other three variations. The quarter Nelson is particularly effective for opening up defensive turtle position and transitioning to side control.

Hand Placement and Grip Setup

Begin with pressure on the opponent's back. The left hand cups the base of the neck to control and suppress the head. The right hand threads under the same-side armpit and connects the hands, establishing the foundation for the technique.

The Mechanics of Head Pressure

The primary driver of this technique is head pressure rather than arm strength. While instinct may encourage lifting with the arm, the correct mechanical execution involves pressing the opponent's head through their body. This head movement automatically brings the arm along with it.

Execution with Transition

From the locked grip position, release excess back pressure and drive through the opponent's head using the connected hands. Follow through with chest pressure toward side control, maintaining connection throughout the movement rather than simply lifting.

Directional Pressure: Down and Up

The technique requires simultaneous downward pressure on the head while driving upward with the body. This combined downward-and-up directional force collapses the opponent's structure and facilitates the rotation. Without this coordinated pressure sequence, the technique lacks sufficient force to execute.

Principle: Following the Head

The fundamental principle underlying the quarter Nelson is that the body follows the head. By controlling and directing head movement, the instructor ensures the opponent's body follows through to the desired position. This principle applies universally across throwing and submission techniques.

Tactical Application and Element of Surprise

The quarter Nelson from turtle position is highly effective precisely because opponents do not anticipate it, particularly those without wrestling backgrounds. By attacking unexpected anatomical targets, practitioners gain positional advantage before opponents can mount a defense. This unexpected approach frequently surprises even advanced practitioners.

BJJ Turtle Soup 3 | 1/4 Quarter Nelson

BJJ Giant

Nelson From Turtle

2 min read·7 key moments·PT4M25S video

Key Takeaways

•The Nelson Family of Submissions
•Hand Placement and Grip Setup
•The Mechanics of Head Pressure
•Execution with Transition

We're just built differently, that's ok! I recently went to a new gyms first class and the first sub they were building to was the RNC from back control, and it was the perfect option for 98% of the class. But me getting getting hooks in on someone, maintaining good chest to back connection, and then fishing in a good RNC just doesn't come by, and worst of all, I give up such good position and control at the end of it. Enter Turtle Soup. Our other options for cracking open turtles while maintaining good control from great positions. Shredder would be thrilled. BJJ Giant Gear! - www.bjjgiant.com Origin Affiliate Link - https://originmaine.com/?ref=BJJGiant... Under Armour Heat Gear Compression - https://amzn.to/3Aw0A0q Under Armour Heat Gear Leggings - https://amzn.to/3Vc1yXH Under Armour Fleece Hoodie - https://amzn.to/3Ek0ha9 Chapters: 0:00 Intro 0:15 Quarter Nelson Set Up 1:24 Always Follow Through 2:13 Impromptu Coaching 2:43 Outro 3:12 Bonus | Does it Work on Me?

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Nelson From Front Headlock

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about nelson from turtle?

This video covers the nelson family of submissions, hand placement and grip setup, the mechanics of head pressure. It provides detailed instruction from BJJ Giant.

How long does it take to learn nelson from turtle?

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.