Setup and Arm Protection

The double scoot escape begins from back control with the defender's elbows tight against the rib cage and hands protecting the chin and neck in a "home alone hands" position. The defender must ensure the opponent does not have a tight arm underneath the torso, as this prevents the escape from functioning. This defensive hand placement is prioritized over other variations for this particular escape.

First Scoot: Inline Movement

The defender digs both heels into the floor and performs the first reverse shrimp directly in line with the opponent's body, moving the shoulders down the opponent's trunk. This initial movement is executed while maintaining tight elbows and home alone hands to protect against submission attempts.

Second Scoot: Angular Displacement

The defender then performs a second scoot at an angle to either side, placing the shoulder on the floor to create enough space to maneuver. This directional choice is essential; attempting both scoots in a straight line prevents the shoulder from fitting into the crook of the opponent's knee, stalling the escape.

Hand Positioning Through the Hook

As the shoulder threads through the crook of the knee, the top hand slides above the knee while the other hand remains tight around the neck. The hand placement must be above the knee—not on or below it—to avoid arm bar vulnerabilities or allowing the opponent to retake the back.

Elbow Tuck and Hook Clearance

The defender tucks the upper elbow, which mechanically straightens the opponent's leg and creates opportunity to clear the hook. The defender then brings both legs together and opens that leg away to dislodge the remaining hook while keeping the protecting hand in place.

Belly Flop and Head Positioning

The defender executes a belly flop by rolling onto the opponent's leg without lifting the hips, simultaneously moving the head toward the far hip to prevent a crucifix submission. Active downward pelvic pressure during this movement is critical to maintain control and prevent the opponent from reversing position.

Arm Extraction and Side Control

The defender drags the top leg over tightly and extracts the arm from between the opponent's legs, securing side control with tight positioning. The defender maintains home alone hands to protect the neck and establish dominant positioning from the escape.

Back Control Escape The Double Scoot

Great Grappling

Scoot And Turn Escape

2 min read·7 key moments·PT5M6S video

Key Takeaways

•Setup and Arm Protection
•First Scoot: Inline Movement
•Second Scoot: Angular Displacement
•Hand Positioning Through the Hook

In this video I show a way to escape the back position by keeping both arms tight and scooting away (or a version of a reverse shrimp). The first, and most important thing about this move, is that you protect that space under your armpits. I refer to the hand positioning as "Home Alone Hands" in the kids class and it just carried over into the adults. This is so important to this move that not only will you not be able to do it if they have a grip under your armpit, but attempting this move will probably get you armbarred if you try it when they have a hand on the lapel. If you do get a good defense going and they happened to set those hooks without under grips then it's important to dig your heels into the ground and pull your bottom away. Make sure to keep an even pulling motion away and avoid picking one side or the other. After you have moved away you will feel a binding pressure where your opponents legs are holding on. It is at this point where you choose a side to escape. Upon choosing your side you will make a reverse shrimp and take your shoulder to the floor. If you moved away first you will find that there is a perfect pocket to make the next transition. Once your shoulder has hit the floor it's time to bring your hand through and grip above the knee. This can be a very tricky transition and you should reference the video to see how I make this space. Notice how I grip above the knee with my elbow out at first then bring it in tightly. If done with a strong grip, above the knee, it will slightly straighten your partners knee, this is exactly what we are looking for. Now its time to clear your opponents other foot. Make sure you do not take your other hand and stuff the ankle, this is dangerous and leaves your neck AND hand exposed. As soon as your hand moves away from your body you'll either get Kimuraed, armbarred or choked...keep it in tight. Instead you should use your legs to clear that leg, sometimes it will be difficult, sometimes it will be hard. This will be dependent on what your opponent is doing. Regardless of their defense it is important that you clear the leg so you can belly flop on the leg. When you roll over on top of the leg you must be completely laying flat on the leg. that arm hugging above the knee will give some extra pressure but you can not get on your toes and try to drive in. This will give your opponents an opportunity to bring their leg back into the game and put you in an annoying guard. Instead it's important to slowly drag your body across the leg while keeping as much pressure as you can. Once you clear the leg you can use your hand that is closest to your opponent's head to grab inside their collar or grab their spare sleeve. While making this transition it's also important to keep your head turned towards the trunk of your opponent's body. You should be making slow progress towards the far hip of your opponent or he/she will push on your hear and try to stuff your head. Overall this can be a great technique but you must stay tight throughout. Keep in mind you're leaving a terrible position and the journey is dangerous! Like all your other moves it's important to practice these escapes so that the move is seamless and well executed!

Related Techniques

Body Triangle Escape Hand Fighting Escape Shoulder Walk Escape

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about scoot and turn escape?

This video covers setup and arm protection, first scoot: inline movement, second scoot: angular displacement. It provides detailed instruction from Great Grappling.

How long does it take to learn scoot and turn escape?

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.