Unlock Your BJJ Arsenal: Lasso Guard to Omoplata with Clark Gracie
In the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), mastering guard variations is key to controlling opponents and setting up submissions. One slick move that every grappler should add to their repertoire is the transition from lasso guard to the omoplata. Black belt Clark Gracie, known for his technical precision and innovative approaches, breaks it down perfectly. This technique shines in gi rolling, where sleeve grips and wraps create endless attack options. Whether you're competing in BJJ tournaments, training for MMA, or just honing your skills on the mats, this flow will boost your top-game defense and submission threats.
Lasso guard is a powerhouse position, especially against standing opponents or those trying to pass. It involves wrapping one leg around the opponent's arm in a lasso fashion while controlling their sleeve. From here, Clark Gracie shows how to seamlessly pivot into the omoplata—a shoulder lock that catches many off guard. This isn't just a random sweep; it's a calculated chain that keeps pressure on while opening submission angles.
Why This Transition Rocks for Your Game
- Versatility Across Styles: Works great in pure BJJ but translates to no-gi MMA with modifications using wrist controls instead of gi grips.
- High Finish Rate: Omoplatas exploit tired arms and poor posture, common in longer rolls or fights.
- Defensive Edge: If they posture up to escape lasso, you're already halfway to the lock.
- Scalable for All Levels: Beginners build control fundamentals; advanced players chain it to back takes or armbars.
Step-by-Step Breakdown: From Lasso to Omoplata
Let's dive into the details. Imagine you're on bottom in lasso guard: your left leg lassoed around their right arm (toe pointed down for control), right knee shield up high, and grips locked in.
Step 1: Establish Dominant Grips
Pull their right sleeve deep with your right hand, thumb inside for control. Your left hand grabs the same sleeve but higher, near the cuff. This double sleeve control prevents them from basing or framing. Keep your elbow tight to your body—no space for them to insert their hand.Step 2: Lasso Leg Activation
With your left foot hooked inside their right elbow (lasso grip), push your knee across their chest to break their posture. Rotate your hips slightly clockwise to off-balance them forward. This is crucial—posture break creates the window for the transition.Step 3: Switch to Omoplata Entry
Release the higher sleeve grip momentarily. Swing your left leg (the lasso one) over their head, aiming for their neck/shoulder line. As you do, feed their right arm between your legs with your right hand. Your left arm now posts on the mat for leverage, framing their torso away.Step 4: Secure the Omoplata Position
Once the leg is over their shoulder, clasp your hands behind their back or tricep for the figure-four grip. Bridge your hips explosively while pulling their elbow down. Their shoulder is now torqued—tap or adjust for the finish.Step 5: Finish or Chain Attacks
If they defend by rolling forward, follow to maintain control, potentially sweeping to mount. If they pull back, extend into a straight armbar or roll to the back. Clark stresses smooth hip movement here—practice slow to build fluidity.Common Mistakes and Pro Tips
- Mistake: Loose Lasso: Ensure the foot is deep inside the elbow crook. Pro Tip: Point toes and squeeze shin to arm.
- Mistake: No Posture Break: Always off-balance first. Drill with a partner holding base.
- Mistake: Rushing the Swing: Time it after they commit forward. Use your shield knee to push.
- Gear Integration: Rash guards prevent gi bunching during hip switches; shin guards protect in sparring drills. Apollo MMA stocks top options from Venum and Sanabul.
Drilling and Progression
Start solo: Shadow drill the hip switches and leg swings. Partner drill: 5 reps per side from static lasso, then live resistance. Progress to starting from failed guard passes. In MMA context, adapt for wrestling entries—use underhooks instead of sleeves.
Film your rolls to check grip depth and hip rotation. Clark Gracie's clarity makes this accessible yet devastating. Integrate it into your warm-ups, and watch your submission game level up.
Relating to Other Combat Sports
- Muay Thai/BJJ Cross-Training: Builds clinch escapes when takedowns fail.
- Wrestling: Enhances guard retention against shots.
- Kickboxing: Improves floor control if fights go down.
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