BJJ Blueprint Series : How to Escape the Giftwrap

The giftwrap position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is notoriously difficult to escape. In this position, your opponent controls your head and arm with a two-on-one grip, while your back is exposed off the floor—making it a challenging spot to defend from.

Brian Glick breaks down effective strategies to escape this tough hold, focusing on one core principle: getting your back to the floor to reduce vulnerability. The first step is to strip your partner’s grips. Glick advises starting by controlling your opponent’s tricep and peeling it forward, allowing you to slip your elbow to the inside. This move disrupts their control and helps you begin turning to face your opponent.

If slipping your elbow inside isn’t possible, the next technique involves attacking the grip itself. Since only one of your opponent’s hands controls your wrist, you can pull your elbow back and slide your hand underneath their wrist to strip the grip. Once free, you turn to face your partner, bringing your elbow inside and breaking the giftwrap hold.

Glick also warns about potential transitions your opponent might attempt, such as moving into kata-gatame (arm triangle). To counter this, he suggests closing off space by hugging your opponent’s head and keeping your elbows tight, preparing to frame and escape.

If you’re ready to dive into the world of authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, consider visiting The Jiu-Jitsu Foundry at 72-C, Jalan SS21/62, Damansara Utama, Petaling Jaya, WhatsApp 011-11510501. Embrace the challenge, improve your skills, and discover how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can transform your martial arts journey!

Be good!