Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a grappling-based martial art that emphasizes the use of leverage, technique, and strategy to control and submit an opponent. One of the key movements in BJJ is the shrimp, which is used to escape from bottom position and get back to your feet. In this blog post, we will focus on the forward and backward shrimping drill, which is an essential part of a BJJ practitioner’s training regimen.
What is Forward and Backward Shrimping?
Shrimping is a movement that involves using your hips and legs to escape from bottom position and create space between you and your opponent. The forward shrimp involves moving your hips forward and away from your opponent, while the backward shrimp involves moving your hips backward and towards your opponent. These two movements are critical in BJJ, as they allow you to escape from bad positions and get back to your feet.
Why is Forward and Backward Shrimping Important?
Shrimping is one of the most fundamental movements in BJJ, and it is used in a variety of situations. For example, if you are caught in side control, you can use the backward shrimp to create space and escape. If you are caught in mount, you can use the forward shrimp to escape and get back to your feet. In addition, shrimping is a great exercise for building hip and leg strength, which is essential for BJJ.
How to Perform the Forward and Backward Shrimping Drill
Here’s how to perform the forward and backward shrimping drill:
Start in a prone position on your stomach.
To perform the forward shrimp, pivot on your left hand and bring your right knee up towards your chest. At the same time, push off with your left foot and move your hips forward.
Repeat the movement, alternating sides and working on developing a smooth, fluid motion.
To perform the backward shrimp, pivot on your left hand and bring your right knee towards your left elbow. At the same time, push off with your right foot and move your hips backward.
Repeat the movement, alternating sides and focusing on maintaining control and keeping your legs tight to your body.
Tips for Improving Your Forward and Backward Shrimping
Here are some tips for improving your forward and backward shrimping:
Practice regularly: The more you practice shrimping, the better you will become. Set aside time each day to work on your shrimping, and try to incorporate it into your live sparring sessions.
Focus on form: Make sure you are performing the movement correctly and using your hips and legs to generate power.
Use resistance: You can use a resistance band or a partner to provide resistance as you perform the drill. This will help you build strength and improve your technique.
Practice under pressure: Try to simulate real-world situations in your training, and practice shrimping while your partner is trying to control you. This will help you develop the reflexes and instincts you need to escape from bad positions in live sparring.
Conclusion
Forward and backward shrimping are critical movements in BJJ, and they are essential for escaping from bottom position and getting back to your feet. By incorporating the forward and backward shrimping drill into your training regimen, you can improve your mobility, build hip and leg strength, and become a more effective BJJ practitioner. So, get on the mat and start practicing!
The practice of forward and backward shrimping is fundamental in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), serving as a cornerstone for many of the sport’s essential movements and techniques. These drills help practitioners develop the mobility and positioning skills necessary for guard retention, escapes, and transitions. However, the constant contact with the mat and the repetitive motions can present challenges in terms of comfort and skin protection, particularly when performed at high intensity or over extended periods. This underscores the importance of wearing appropriate protective gear, like rash guards, when engaging in these drills, a topic we explore in-depth in our accompanying video.
Rash guards are not merely a stylistic choice; they serve multiple functional purposes that are especially relevant during shrimping drills. Made from materials like polyester and spandex, good quality rash guards are designed to wick moisture away from the skin, helping to keep you dry and reduce friction between your body and the mat. This is crucial for preventing mat burns, skin irritation, and even bacterial infections like staph and ringworm that can be contracted from gym mats. The snug fit of a rash guard also offers mild compression, which can improve blood circulation and muscle recovery, making it an excellent addition to your BJJ wardrobe.
Protective gear like knee pads and elbow sleeves can also be valuable assets during shrimping drills. The repetitive motion and friction during shrimping can strain these joints and leave you susceptible to both acute injuries and long-term wear and tear. Quality protective gear can offer a cushion against impact and also provide additional support to these vulnerable areas, enabling you to train more effectively and for longer periods. Many brands offer sleek, non-bulky options that fit comfortably under your gi or no-gi attire, ensuring that your mobility is not compromised.
In summary, while mastering the technique of forward and backward shrimping is undoubtedly essential in BJJ, safeguarding your body during these drills is equally important. Rash guards, knee pads, and other protective gear serve as a first line of defense against common physical complaints like skin irritation, burns, and joint strain. They enable you to focus fully on perfecting your skills without the distraction of discomfort or the risk of injury. For a detailed guide on selecting the right protective gear for shrimping drills, be sure to watch our instructional video, where we offer recommendations based on durability, comfort, and performance.
Paul is a 44 year old Online Marketeer and Dad to a beautifull daughter who started Judo and Japanese Jiu Jitsu.
After a few lessons Paul joined a class where the parents where allowed to go on the mat with the kids.
Since then Paul is hooked and he immediately started immerging himself in the world of martial arts.
