How to do the BJJ Cartwheel Pass

The cartwheel pass is a dynamic technique used to pass the guard of your opponent. It requires coordination, balance, and practice to execute properly. It has been performed by Kazushi Sakuraba in MMA years ago but was mostly popularized by Nicky Rodriguez in a nogi setting. Before continuing – we should note that this pass isn’t for everyone. If you’re slow, older, or less athletic – then it’s probably not for you. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform the BJJ cartwheel pass.

How to do the cartwheel pass

1. Start in a standing position, facing your opponent who is in the seated guard or open guard position.
2. Take a step forward with your lead foot, positioning it slightly to the outside of your opponent’s same-side leg.
3. Swing your back leg (the one opposite your lead foot) up and over your head, initiating a cartwheel motion. As you swing your leg, lean your upper body forward and tuck your head to maintain balance.
4. As your back leg comes down, use it to hook and control your opponent’s leg on the side you’re passing. This hook will prevent your opponent from following your movement or regaining guard.
5. Simultaneously, bring your lead leg down and step it over your opponent’s other leg, maintaining control of their leg with your back leg. This motion should allow you to step directly into side control or a dominant position.
6. Once your lead leg is over your opponent’s leg, establish a strong base, keeping your weight centered and your hips low. Maintain control of your opponent’s leg, ensuring they can’t recover their guard.
7. Complete the pass by freeing your trapped leg (the one that swung over your head during the cartwheel motion). You can do this by either kicking it out or stepping over your opponent’s body, depending on the specific situation and your control.

Remember, the BJJ cartwheel pass requires practice to master the timing, coordination, and balance needed for successful execution. Start by drilling the individual components, such as the cartwheel motion and controlling your opponent’s leg, before putting them together into a fluid movement. Practice with a partner or under the guidance of a qualified instructor to ensure proper technique and safety.

How to defend the cartwheel pass

Defending the cartwheel pass in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) requires a combination of timing, awareness, and effective use of your guard. Here are some key strategies and techniques to help you defend against the cartwheel pass:

1. Maintain a strong seated guard: When you sense your opponent attempting a cartwheel pass, focus on maintaining a strong seated guard position. Keep your posture upright, with your back straight and your hips mobile. This will make it more challenging for your opponent to initiate the pass.
2. Control your opponent’s grips and posture: If your opponent manages to establish a grip on your collar, sleeve, or any other part of your body, break their grips as quickly as possible. Grip fighting is crucial to maintain control and prevent your opponent from executing the pass effectively. Additionally, control their posture by pulling them forward or placing your feet on their hips.
3. Use leg pummeling: As your opponent begins their cartwheel motion, actively pummel your legs inside their arms. This will disrupt their balance and timing, making it harder for them to complete the pass smoothly. Keep your legs active and mobile, preventing them from establishing a strong leg hook.
4. Create distance and off-balance your opponent: As your opponent attempts the cartwheel pass, use your legs to create distance. Push against their hips or shoulders with your feet to off-balance them and disrupt their momentum. By keeping them off-balance, you can make it more difficult for them to establish control and successfully complete the pass.
5. Utilize inversion techniques: Inverting is a defensive technique where you roll backward or sideways, often using your shoulders as the pivot point. By inverting at the right moment, you can evade your opponent’s pass attempt and potentially regain control of the situation. Practice and timing are key to effectively use inversion techniques.
6. Counter with submissions or sweeps: If you anticipate the cartwheel pass, you can use your opponent’s momentum to your advantage. Look for opportunities to transition into submissions or sweeps as they commit to the pass. For example, you can attack with a triangle choke or execute a sweep like the scissor sweep or butterfly sweep.

Remember, defending against the cartwheel pass requires a combination of proper timing, technique, and situational awareness. Regular drilling and live training with partners who attempt the cartwheel pass will help you develop effective defenses. Working with a knowledgeable instructor can provide valuable guidance and feedback on your defense techniques.