North-South Position Setup

The instructor explains that north-south escapes differ from south-side control escapes due to the opponent's arm configuration. Most commonly, the opponent controls with one arm trapped and one arm free, rather than committing both arms. Understanding this typical positioning is essential before attempting the escape.

Arm Protection and Hand Positioning

The escaping player must protect the trapped arm by keeping it away from the opponent's face to prevent grip opportunities. The free arm passes underneath the opponent's body and extends out the opposite side, allowing the player to begin pushing away.

Initial Pressure and Movement

Once the hand is positioned under the opponent, the escaping player pushes and rocks their feet toward the opponent's legs. This creates the initial displacement necessary to transition into the side control escape phase.

Elbow Control and Rocking Motion

From side control, the escaping player reaches for the opponent's elbow, keeping their tongue pointing downward. They then push the elbow outward while rocking their feet and sitting up, with the elbow remaining on the mat as a pivot point.

Hand Escape and Guard Transition

The player continues pushing the opponent's arm away while moving their hips over, eventually freeing their hand to transition toward guard position. Maintaining focus on the opponent's arm throughout prevents re-establishment of side control.

Elbow Extension as Escape Confirmation

Once the escaping player achieves elbow extension with their arm locked, they have reached a position where the opponent cannot regain control. This extended elbow position serves as the marker that the escape is complete.

Protecting Against Head Control

As the player moves, they must prevent the opponent from switching to a head control grip, as this allows the opponent to reconnect their hands and trap the escaper again. Pulling the opponent's arm away immediately upon detecting this transition is essential.

Arm Passing and Elbow Grip

When the opponent attempts to hold the escaper's hand, the player passes the opponent's arm over with their free hand and immediately reaches for the elbow. The arm must remain extended and locked while continuing the rocking motion.

Final Execution and Head Control Prevention

The player repeats the sequence with one arm protected and one arm free, stopping the opponent's hand if they attempt head control. Hip movement, elbow positioning on the mat, and continuous pressure complete the escape.

North South Escape, Elbow Push Escape vs Side Contro

Just Train

Shrimp North-South Escape

2 min read·9 key moments·PT5M video

Key Takeaways

•North-South Position Setup
•Arm Protection and Hand Positioning
•Initial Pressure and Movement
•Elbow Control and Rocking Motion

Related Techniques

Inversion North-South Escape

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about shrimp north-south escape?

This video covers north-south position setup, arm protection and hand positioning, initial pressure and movement. It provides detailed instruction from Just Train.

How long does it take to learn shrimp north-south escape?

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.