Initial Setup from Standing Rear Body Lock

When an opponent attempts to walk away from the standing rear body lock position, the instructor initiates the takedown by stepping in front of the opponent's knee while directing their hands toward the mat. This foot-to-foot positioning with the knee placed in front of the opponent's knee establishes control and begins the breakdown sequence.

Circling and Breaking Down the Opponent

From the foot-to-foot position, the instructor circles and applies downward pressure to break the opponent down to either knee or hip. If the opponent lands on a knee rather than the hip, further pressure forces them into the hip position, lowering their base for easier control and back access.

Transitioning to Half Guard Control

Once the opponent is broken down to hip level, the instructor secures the far-side half guard position. Placing the heel on the opponent's hip line and maintaining pressure opens up attacking opportunities for the back and allows initiation of choking sequences from this dominant position.

Hand Placement and Knee Positioning Refinement

The instructor emphasizes maintaining a high knee with toes off the mat until the opponent's hands contact the ground. This positioning—keeping knees tight and pitching the legs together—ensures better control before executing the hand placement on the mat.

Responding to Scissor Escape Attempts

When the opponent begins scissoring upward, the instructor immediately inserts the boot and retracts the elbow to counter the escape. Timing is critical—the boot insertion must occur at the precise moment the opponent initiates the scissor movement to maintain positional control.

Suplex Variation from Body Lock

As an alternative finishing method, the instructor demonstrates a lifting suplex by stepping in front of the opponent's knee and deepening the hand grip. Rather than continuing forward momentum, hip insertion underneath the opponent enables a controlled lift and guided descent to the mat while maintaining leg control.

Lifting Mechanics with Lead Leg Control

During the suplex execution, the instructor lifts the lead knee while picking up the opponent, guiding them toward the mat. This technique protects against leg reattacks and rolling escapes by controlling the opponent's leg throughout the descent, ensuring a safer landing sequence.

Reattacking Legs When Opponent Breaks Grip

If the opponent breaks the body lock grip while circling away, the instructor changes levels and reattacks using a low ankle grip combined with a hip grip. This repositioning maintains control and continues forward pressure until the opponent's back returns to the mat.

3 Simple Takedowns from Rear Body Lock | Nicky Rod B-Team Technique

The B-Team

Body-Lock Takedown to Back

2 min read·8 key moments·PT5M12S video

Key Takeaways

•Initial Setup from Standing Rear Body Lock
•Circling and Breaking Down the Opponent
•Transitioning to Half Guard Control
•Hand Placement and Knee Positioning Refinement

Nicky Rodriguez shows a couple of takedown options from the rear standing body lock that anybody can do. Instructionals: • Nicky Rod: https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/instructional-videos/fighter_nick-rodriguez • Craig: https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/craig-jones • Ethan: https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/instructional-videos/fighter_ethan-crelinsten • Nicky Ryan: https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/instructional-videos/fighter_nicky-ryan #BTeamJiuJitsu #BJJ #JiuJitsu #NoGi

Related Techniques

Bump the Arm to Back Dirty Boxing Clinch

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about body-lock takedown to back?

This video covers initial setup from standing rear body lock, circling and breaking down the opponent, transitioning to half guard control. It provides detailed instruction from The B-Team.

How long does it take to learn body-lock takedown to back?

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.