Turtle recovery to guard
A safe recovery from turtle that rolls a shoulder under and rebuilds guard facing the partner.
How to read it
What this entry helps you see
This recovery leaves turtle without exposing the neck or the back. By keeping the neck protected, sitting to a hip, and rolling a shoulder under, you turn to face the partner and rebuild a guard. The priority throughout is protecting the neck and clearing the top player controls before turning in.
Key steps
- From turtle, keep your neck protected and your elbows tight.
- Sit your hips toward one side while staying compact.
- Roll your same-side shoulder under and toward the mat.
- Turn to face the partner as your back reaches the floor.
- Insert a knee or a frame between you and the partner.
- Recover open or closed guard and reconnect your grips.
Study cues
- Protect the neck before you begin to turn
- Sit to a hip and roll a shoulder under
- Turn to face the partner rather than turning away
Common errors
- Turning into the partner with the neck exposed
- Rolling forward and giving up the back
- Trying to stand up into pressure without a frame