TFS#27: Catch People Off Guard With This

Let’s break down the Longstep pass today.

It’s one of those passes that really changed the game in the early 2000s.

One common way of slowing down the passer is using a lasso.

The lasso will slow down any passing technique, knee cut, longstep, whatever you may use.

Before you can pass, you’ll have to deal with the lasso first.

In this particular case, we can see Tainan’s partner has him in a Reverse De La Riva (RDLR) and Lasso.

Step 1: Stabilize and control distance

What you want to avoid when in this situation (or most situations) is to have your weight directly on top of the guard player as it makes it really easy for them to manipulate your weight. You’ll want to create some distance and keep your center of gravity off their body.

(Left) Don’t keep your weight on top of chest, they can manipulate your weight by driving your body to the left.
(Right) Instead, move your weight on your hips to stabilize the position.

Step 2: Move to the center

Now you’ll want to move to the center, this will flatten their shoulders on the floor to limit their movement. Make sure to use your free hand to grab the same side collar. This does two things: 1) it flattens their shoulder and 2) it helps maintain your balance. Make sure to pinch your legs together as you come to the center, this will trap their leg between your’s. Both feet should be pressing on the insoles to help maintain balance.

Step 3: Break the Lasso

Here, you’ll now want to peel the Lasso foot off your shoulder and stop the leg from reestablishing the lasso.

(Left) Put your hand on their hip.
(Middle) Dip your head and shoulder low to allow your shoulder to get underneath the foot and scoop under the foot. At the same time you’ll be straightening your arm out.
(Right) Close the space with your body and using the elbow to push on their thigh to deny re-Lasso.

Step 4: Knee Cut to Longstep Pass

Wit the Lasso is broken, you’ll want to reenter into Knee Cut into Longstep.

(Left) It helps to setup the Longstep with a Knee Cut since it pins their leg down to the ground. Dip your head down towards their belly and take a wide step.
(Right) Drop to your knee, then elbow, then Longstep back.

A few more pointers

Keep in mind to use your posture to move your partner into the position you want him to.

Use your body to fit into position.

The best way to avoid the Lasso is to use your body to close the distance.

When you take the Longstep, step far. This forces your partner’s leg to flatten on the ground which makes the Longstep easier since it makes their leg less effective hooks.

Use your body to fit into position.

The best way to avoid the Lasso is to use your body to close the distance.

When you take the Longstep, step far. This forces your partner’s leg to flatten on the ground which makes the Longstep easier since it makes their leg less effective hooks.

For The Dedicated

1. 10 Ways To Become "Unstuck" From A Plateau​
Frustrating plateaus can destroy your training moral and forever change the way you approach Jiu-Jitsu. Follow these 10 methods to stay honest to your journey.

2. Learn The Longstep To Get Around The Guard
During the 2000s, the game of BJJ was growing quickly and the innovation of the Longstep changed passing angles completely.

3. 6 Concepts For Effective Guard Passing
Guard passing is confusing for lower belts and it’s an on going part of your game that you’ll be working on. Keep these 6 concepts in mind when working on your game.

4. Innovation Of The Sport Starts At The Top
Alex Simoes is the CEO of Tekneek, talks about how recent advances in coaching technology can benefit everyone, from students to coaches.

5. An Alternative To Passing The De La Riva Guard
This Longstep pass is going to save you from when your opponent keeps an insanely tight pant grip.

Closing Thought

The Longstep is a simple movement and I’m sure you’ve drilled it in class.

But understand the step up to get to that position to execute the Longstep is the difficult part.

Don’t let the Lasso stop you, it might slow you down, but you can deal with it.