Turtle
A defensive shell on the knees and elbows, read from both the top and the bottom.
How to read it
What this entry helps you see
Turtle is a compact defensive shell on the hands and knees, often reached after a scramble or a stuffed shot. From the bottom, the priority is protecting the neck and looking to recover guard or stand. From the top, the attacker manages contact and looks to break the shell toward the back. Keep the neck safe and avoid straining it while defending or attacking.
Study cues
- For bottom, protect the neck and keep the elbows tight
- For top, control contact before hunting the back
- Choose a clear path to recover guard or stand up
Common errors
- Exposing the neck while turtled
- Staying passive and waiting to be attacked
- Forcing neck movement under pressure instead of clearing controls first