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The idea behind using this defensive posutre is to use it until you need
to move to another position. Obviously, if your opponent is pushing
your elbow across centerline and rolling you onto your stomach, you
are holding the position a little too long.
Where should you go from there (when the opponent has pushed your
elbow)? It depends. For the most part, you will need to go to your
knees and escape, or to free your arm and remain defensive.
Here in lies the difficulty. It is hard to explain everything at once. BJJ
Over 40 was just a starting point. And while many people have had
success using many of the ideas on it, some become lulled into
thinking if they use these positions then the opponent will not be able
to do something. And this is not the case.
It's only a matter of time before an intelligent opponent figures out a
way around these postures and begin countering them. So, it is in your
best interest to remain aware of all that is happening above you -
rather than retreating to these postures, thinking you can stay there for
an extended period of time.
When I use these posture, I pay attention to the slightest movements
made bymy opponent. If his weight is centered and close to my belly
button, good for him. If he shifts his weight just one inch (left, right,
up or down), I know it, am aware of it and am ready to follow up with
the appropriate technique. This is something that is difficult to address
in one instructional DVD because of so many variables (weight,
position of head, position of arms, position of hips, position of knees,
position of feet, etc...).
So, while I could teach all of this on an instructional, it is in your best
interest to try something and observe what happens. If you tap, well at
least you know not to do that particular move with the same opponent.
That movement may work with others, but it obviously doesn't work
with them because they caught you. And, it may not be the movement
that is to blame. It may be poor mechanics or bad timing on your part.
Either way, because it is YOUR GAME that you are developing, YOU
need to fine tune it here and there.
I know the trial and error method does not seem like a logical method
to follow in today's world, but it is the method followed by the
intelligent (not the smart - and there is a difference).
Here are a few ideas for you to play with:
As soon as your opponent touches your right elbow with his left or
right hand to push it across centerline, bridge up and over your right
shoulder. This will cause him to let go of your arm and catch his
balance.
Once he has established a grip on your right elbow with his left
hand, grab his gi near his sleeve with your left hand and bridge and
roll him to your right (Upa).
Once he has pushed your right elbow across centerline, explosively
bridge over your left shoulder, go to your knees and determine what is
the best technique to finish with (a roll, placing the back on the
ground, etc...).
Good training to you,
Roy Harris