Peterson Roll Definition and Adaptation

The Peterson Roll is named after Olympic Wrestling Champion Ben Peterson and has been adapted for judo, sambo, jiu-jitsu, and submission grappling by modifying the wrestler's high-contact approach. Rather than using a traditional wrestling entry, practitioners adapt the technique to finish with a strong hold down or bent-arm control suitable for grappling competition.

Initial Setup and Grip Position

The technique begins when the top player overextends their arm under the bottom player's body, reaching too far rather than controlling the hip or leg. The bottom player counters by grabbing the top player's wrist with their right hand while simultaneously trapping the top player's elbow with their own elbow, creating a secure grip.

Hip Movement and Rolling Entry

The bottom player scoots their hips in slightly to create space, then cocks the top player's leg using a springy hip throw motion. The bottom player maintains the wrist grip throughout as they roll over the top player, transitioning directly into a rear scarf hold position (ura kesa gatame).

Finish Position and Hold Control

Rather than the traditional wrestling finish, practitioners turn the opponent completely over into an ura kesa gatame (reverse scarf hold) for maximum control. This position provides both near-side arm control and far-side hip control through the opponent's pants, belt, or hip, delivering significant pressure to the ribcage while maintaining a legal pin for judo and sambo competition.

Transition to Tate Shio Mount

If the bottom player begins escaping the scarf hold, the top player can transition by driving over and kicking their leg across the opponent's body to establish a tate shio position (vertical four-corner hold). This mount position, also recognized in MMA terminology, provides full control and opens opportunities for arm lock submissions or continued pin pressure.

Leg Trapping Mechanics During Transition

When transitioning by kicking over to the mount position, the player must trap the opponent's legs downward rather than simply swinging the leg across. The hand control is essential during this transition, with the top player maintaining grip integrity to prevent the bottom player's escape during the positional shift.

Bilateral Practice and Bent-Arm Option

Practitioners should develop proficiency with the Peterson Roll on both sides, as opponents may ride from either direction. An alternative finishing method involves maintaining the kesa gatame position and transitioning into a bent-arm lock, which may be preferred depending on the ruleset (submission grappling versus judo competition).

Application Across Grappling Disciplines

The Peterson Roll is applicable across multiple grappling contexts including submission grappling, judo, sambo, and mixed martial arts. The technique allows a bottom player to reverse an advantageous ride position, escape danger, and establish a dominant top position with multiple finishing options depending on competition rules and opponent response.

BASIC TURNOVERS 7 PETERSON ROLL

welcomematstevescott

Peterson Roll

3 min read·8 key moments·PT6M42S video

Key Takeaways

•Peterson Roll Definition and Adaptation
•Initial Setup and Grip Position
•Hip Movement and Rolling Entry
•Finish Position and Hold Control

In this seventh episode of our 13-part series, we look at the Peterson Roll-an excellent way to get from the bottom position and reverse the roles on your opponent. View hundreds of videos of judo, freestyle judo, Shingitai Jujitsu, sambo, submission grappling and sport jujitsu on our Youtube channel at http://youtube.com/user/welcomematstevescott. Music for the Freestyle Judo show provided by YouTube Copyright Free Audio featuring "Fiend" by Sting and performed by the Jingle Punks and "All This Down Time" by Sting and performed by the Jingle Punks. The Welcome Mat Judo-Jujitsu Club was founded in 1969. Please subscribe to our Youtube channel if you have not done so already. Visit our web sites at http://www.WelcomeMatJudoClub, http://www.judoblackbelt.com and visit our online store at http://www.WelcomeMatStore.com. Join our premium channel at http://www.grapplingcoach.us. Thank you for watching our video.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about peterson roll?

This video covers peterson roll definition and adaptation, initial setup and grip position, hip movement and rolling entry. It provides detailed instruction from welcomematstevescott.

How long does it take to learn peterson roll?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.