Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is like a chess game with your body. It's all about strategy, technique, and knowing how to defend yourself when your opponent makes their move. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned grappler, mastering defensive moves is crucial in BJJ. So, let's break down the top 10 defensive actions that will help you stay safe and turn the tables when you're on the mat.

1.The Guard: Your First Line of Defense

The guard position is your home base in BJJ. You're in the guard when you're on your back with your legs wrapped around your opponent. It's like having a protective shield, where many defensive moves begin. You can control the distance from here and work on submissions, sweeps, or stand back up. Your guard is your fortress, and you can make it nearly impenetrable with practice.

To make your guard even more effective, you can learn different variations, like the closed, open, or butterfly, depending on your style and preferences. Each guard type offers unique defensive advantages and opportunities for offense. 

2.Shrimping: The Escape Artist's Secret

Shrimping is like the Houdini move of BJJ. When your opponent is trying to pass your guard, you use this technique to create space and escape their grip. You'll move your hips to the side, push off the ground with your feet, and slide away from your opponent. It's a fundamental escape technique that every BJJ practitioner should master.

Beyond escaping, shrimping is also a setup for numerous offensive moves. You can use it to set up sweeps and reversals or to create angles for submissions. Think of shrimping as the foundation for your defensive and offensive repertoire in BJJ. It's a move that will serve you well in countless situations on the mats.

3.The Frame: Creating Space Under Pressure

When pinned beneath your opponent, the frame is your best friend. It's a technique that involves using your forearms and elbows to create space and keep your opponent's weight off you. By framing correctly, you can avoid getting smothered and work out of bad situations. It's all about leverage and maintaining control even at the bottom.

To maximize the effectiveness of your frames, focus on proper positioning and timing. You'll want to be proactive, using your edges to prevent your opponent from settling into dominant positions.

4.The Hip Escape: Sliding to Safety

The hip escape, or the hip bump or bridge and roll, is a versatile defensive move in BJJ. Whether in side control or mount, this technique allows you to use your hips to escape and regain a more favorable position. By bridging and rolling, you can catch your opponent off guard and turn the tables when they least expect it.

Hip escapes are all about fluid movement and timing. The key is to combine your hip movement with the precise placement of your hands and legs. This coordinated effort will let you slip out of tight spots and potentially set up counterattacks. 

5.The Turtle Position: Defending Your Back

Sometimes, you'll find yourself in the turtle position – on all fours with your opponent trying to take your back. Learning how to defend in this position is vital. You'll need to protect your neck, create a solid base, and work on getting back to a more advantageous position. The turtle position might seem vulnerable, but with the proper defense, you can stay safe.

In the turtle position, maintaining a solid turtle posture is critical. This involves tucking your chin, keeping your elbows tight to your body, and using your legs to create a stable base. You can also use the turtle as a transitional position to escape to guard or initiate your attacks. 

6.The Granby Roll: Escape and Reversal Combo

The Granby roll is a dynamic defensive move in BJJ that combines escape and reversal. When your opponent has you in a tight spot, the Granby roll lets you roll backward, creating distance and reversing the situation. Its slick move can catch your opponent off balance and give you the upper hand.

7.The Kimura Defense: Breaking Free from the Lock

The Kimura is a potent submission hold in BJJ, but knowing how to defend against it is equally important. It would help to react swiftly when your opponent tried to lock in a Kimura. One effective defense is to grip your shorts or belt, preventing your opponent from securing the submission. Simultaneously, you can use your body movement to alleviate pressure and counter your attack.

8.The Guillotine Escape: Breathing Easy Again

Being caught in a guillotine choke can suffocate, but there's a way out. To defend against the guillotine, tuck your chin, turn your head, and use your hands to protect your neck. Simultaneously, posture up and create space between you and your opponent. You can break free from the chokehold and regain control if done correctly.

9.The Knee Shield: Keeping Distance and Control

The knee shield can be a lifesaver when your opponent is on your guard and trying to pass. It involves using your knee as a shield to maintain distance and control. Extending your leg and creating a barrier makes it difficult for your opponent to get close and advance their position. This defensive move sets you up for sweeps and submissions, too.

10.The Sprawl: Foiling Takedowns with Ease

In BJJ, takedowns are a common entry point for your opponent to gain control. The sprawl is your go-to defense against takedowns. When your opponent shoots for a takedown, you sprawl your legs backward, preventing them from getting a grip on your legs. It's a simple yet effective move that keeps you on your feet and ready to counterattack.

Conclusion

Mastering defensive moves in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is essential for your success. These techniques, from the guard and shrimping to the knee shield and sprawl, provide you with the tools to defend against various attacks and stay safe during a match. 

Remember that practice makes perfect in BJJ, so keep drilling these defensive moves until they become second nature. With dedication and skill, you'll not only survive but thrive in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. So, get on the mat, put in the work, and keep rolling!