Introduction to Turtle Position Attacks

The turtle position presents a significant defensive challenge, particularly when training partners with judo backgrounds employ it effectively. This instructional guide covers two fundamental approaches for turning over an opponent in turtle, suitable for practitioners beginning to develop their positional attacking arsenal.

The Far Arm Trap: Setup from Side Control

From side control, the instructor drives his knee between the opponent's elbow and knee to separate their balled-up posture. This creates the necessary space to execute the far arm trap technique effectively.

The Far Arm Trap: Grip and Execution

The attacking grappler captures the opponent's far arm with both hands—the top hand from above and the bottom hand underneath the body. Grip placement near the elbow rather than the wrist provides superior leverage for the turnover.

The Far Arm Trap: Finishing the Position

By dropping chest pressure and driving through the toes, the attacker turns the opponent onto their side or completely over. If the opponent leaves their arm exposed, a reverse arm triangle choke becomes available.

Far Arm Trap as a Threat System

Although less effective against experienced opponents, the far arm trap functions as a primary threat that forces defensive responses. These defensive adjustments create opportunities for secondary techniques such as rolling crucifix attacks, clock chokes, or other submissions.

The Knee Mount Transition: Prerequisites

The second technique requires two conditions: minimal size disparity between opponents and a purely defensive, stationary turtle position. This method proves ineffective against opponents who actively move or attempt to escape.

The Knee Mount Transition: Material Control

The attacker secures material around both the opponent's elbow and knee while maintaining continuous weight pressure. This grip foundation enables the next phase of the transition.

The Knee Mount Transition: Execution and Follow-up

From the established grips, the attacker pops to their feet while backing up, then transitions directly into knee mount. This position provides dominant control and multiple attacking options including chokes and arm attacks.

Defensive Turtle as Ineffective Strategy

Prolonged turtle defense without offensive intent fails to constitute legitimate jiu-jitsu practice. Effective training requires purposeful engagement rather than passive stalling positions.

The 2 Easiest Attacks Against the Turtle Position

Stephan Kesting

Cradle From Turtle

2 min read·9 key moments·PT4M33S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Turtle Position Attacks
•The Far Arm Trap: Setup from Side Control
•The Far Arm Trap: Grip and Execution
•The Far Arm Trap: Finishing the Position

Two of the easiest ways to attack the turtle position in BJJ and Judo by Stephan Kesting. Thousands of other videos, articles and techniques by Stephan are available at http://www.grapplearts.com Thanks to Rob Biernacki http://www.islandtopteam.com for assisting with this video

Related Techniques

Cradle From Side Control Cradle From Top Half Guard

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about cradle from turtle?

This video covers introduction to turtle position attacks, the far arm trap: setup from side control, the far arm trap: grip and execution. It provides detailed instruction from Stephan Kesting.

How long does it take to learn cradle from turtle?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.