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Saddle Variations Top | BJJ Position Guide | BJJ Graph

Oct 25, 202511 min read

Saddle Variations Top

bjjstateleg_entanglementoffensive_positionvariationsadvanced

State Properties

  • State ID: S234
  • Point Value: 2 (Advantage position)
  • Position Type: Offensive Control (Variable Dominance)
  • Risk Level: Medium
  • Energy Cost: Medium
  • Time Sustainability: Medium to Long

State Description

Saddle Variations Top encompasses multiple configurations of saddle-type leg entanglements including reverse saddle (outside saddle), shallow saddle entries, modified saddle positions from unconventional angles, and transitional saddle states. These variations provide tactical flexibility, allowing you to attack opponents who defend standard inside saddle effectively, create submission dilemmas through position switching, and capitalize on different entry opportunities that arise during rolling or competition. Mastering variations rather than relying solely on standard saddle makes your leg attack game significantly more dangerous and unpredictable.

Each variation has distinct characteristics: reverse saddle offers outside control with different submission angles, shallow saddle represents entry phases before full consolidation, modified entries come from unusual positions or angles, and transitional states bridge between different saddle types. While standard inside saddle remains the gold standard for mechanical advantage, these variations are essential tools for complete leg lock practitioners. They expand your tactical palette and force opponents to defend multiple problem types simultaneously.

Visual Description

Your body positioning varies significantly by variation type. In reverse/outside saddle, your legs establish figure-four control on the outside of opponent’s trapped leg rather than inside, creating different leverage angles. In shallow saddle, your leg configuration is looser or incomplete with more distance between your hips and their knee joint. Modified saddle entries might have you at unusual angles - perhaps from side control transitions, guard pass positions, or scrambles - creating non-traditional but still effective leg entanglement control. Across all variations, common elements include: controlling one of opponent’s legs through your legs, positioning for lower body attacks, and working to improve position toward tighter control or immediate submissions. The spatial relationships and pressure mechanics differ from standard saddle, requiring variation-specific understanding.

Key Principles

  • Variation Selection: Choose saddle type based on entry opportunity and opponent’s defensive knowledge
  • Consolidation Timing: Know when to tighten shallow entries versus finishing from loose positions
  • Leverage Understanding: Different variations provide different mechanical advantages for specific submissions
  • Variation Chaining: Flow between variations to capitalize on defensive reactions
  • Entry Diversity: Access saddle family from multiple positions rather than single entry
  • Submission Adaptation: Match finish type to variation characteristics
  • Safety in Training: Apply all variations with control and partner awareness

Offensive Transitions

From Reverse/Outside Saddle

From Shallow Saddle

From Modified Entries

Universal Transitions

Defensive Responses

When opponent begins escaping:

Decision Tree

If opponent defends inside position excellently:

Else if shallow entry achieved but not consolidated:

Else if opponent’s defense creates opening for variation switch:

Else (solid control in any variation):

Expert Insights

John Danaher: “Variation mastery separates competent leg lockers from elite ones. The standard inside saddle is mechanically superior, but opponents who train extensively will defend it well. Having reverse saddle, modified entries, and the ability to chain variations creates multiple problems simultaneously. Each variation exists on a hierarchy of control - inside saddle at the apex, but other variations remain highly effective when properly understood. The key is systematic progression toward better variations rather than forcing suboptimal positions. Use shallow saddle as entry point, consolidate when possible, switch variations when opponent’s defense dictates. This creates an adaptive attacking system rather than predictable pattern.”

Gordon Ryan: “I use variation switching constantly in competition. Someone defends my inside saddle entry, I immediately switch to reverse saddle or come from different angle. Most people train defense against one or two saddle types - I have five or six variations I can use. This makes me unpredictable and forces opponent to defend positions they haven’t drilled extensively. The reverse saddle is particularly underutilized - it’s not as tight as inside saddle, but it’s still incredibly strong and people don’t expect it. Shallow saddle is my testing phase - I enter loose, see how they defend, then either tighten or switch variations based on their reaction.”

Eddie Bravo: “At 10th Planet, we’ve always believed in having multiple paths to the same destination. Our ‘Honey Hole family’ includes standard, reverse, modified entries from lockdown, entries from truck - all leading to saddle-type positions. This variation-heavy approach reflects our philosophy that there’s never just one way to do anything in Jiu-Jitsu. When you’re attacking with variations, you’re creating a chess game where opponent has to defend multiple threats. They can’t just memorize one escape sequence - they need complete understanding of leg entanglement principles. That’s much harder to develop, giving you the advantage.”

Common Errors

Error: Forcing Standard Saddle When Variation Would Work Better

  • Consequence: Wastes energy fighting for suboptimal entry when easier path exists through variation
  • Correction: Assess opponent’s defensive positioning and choose variation that capitalizes on their specific vulnerabilities
  • Recognition: If standard entry is consistently defended, reassess and try different variation

Error: Not Consolidating Shallow Entries

  • Consequence: Opponent escapes from loose position that could have been tightened into secure control
  • Correction: Against skilled opponents, always consolidate shallow saddle before finishing attempts
  • Recognition: If opponent frequently escapes your “almost-got-it” positions, you’re not consolidating

Error: Using Same Variation Repeatedly

  • Consequence: Becomes predictable, allowing opponent to specialize defense against your preferred variation
  • Correction: Develop proficiency in multiple variations and use them unpredictably based on situation
  • Recognition: If opponents are consistently ready for your entries, you’ve become too predictable

Error: Misunderstanding Variation Leverage

  • Consequence: Attempting submissions that don’t work well from specific variations
  • Correction: Learn which submissions are highest percentage from each variation type
  • Recognition: If you’re struggling to finish despite good position, submission choice may not match variation

Error: Neglecting Safety in “Weaker” Variations

  • Consequence: Injuries to training partners because reverse saddle or shallow saddle seemed “less dangerous”
  • Correction: All saddle variations can cause injury - maintain safety-first training approach regardless of variation type
  • Recognition: If partners hesitate to train variations with you, reassess your safety standards

Training Drills

Drill 1: Variation Entry Flow

Practice entering all saddle variations from single starting position (e.g., cross ashi). Partner provides moderate resistance. Flow: standard entry, reverse entry, modified angle entry. 6-minute rounds.

Drill 2: Consolidation Practice

Partner allows shallow saddle entry but defends consolidation at 50-70% intensity. Practice systematically tightening position despite resistance. Focus on hip pressure, leg adjustment, upper body control. 5-minute rounds.

Drill 3: Variation Switching

Establish one saddle variation, partner defends specific way, immediately switch to different variation that capitalizes on their defensive reaction. Builds adaptive attacking. 4-minute rounds.

Drill 4: Variation-Specific Finishes

Dedicate rounds to specific submissions from each variation. Learn what works best from reverse vs inside vs shallow saddle. 3-minute rounds per variation type, 5 variations = 15 minutes total.

Drill 5: Competition Simulation

Partner uses realistic defenses at 75% intensity. You must recognize opportunities, enter appropriate saddle variation, and finish or consolidate. 6-minute rounds simulating competition pressure and decision-making.

Optimal Submission Paths

Variation-switching path: Saddle Variations Top (reverse) → Variation Switch → Saddle Position Top (inside) → Inside Heel Hook → Won by Submission

Consolidation path: Saddle Variations Top (shallow) → Consolidation to Deep Saddle → Saddle Position Top → Inside Heel Hook → Won by Submission

Opportunistic path: Saddle Variations Top (any) → Variation-Appropriate Submission → Won by Submission

Position Metrics

  • Position Retention Rate: Beginner 58%, Intermediate 73%, Advanced 86%
  • Consolidation Success: Beginner 55%, Intermediate 70%, Advanced 85%
  • Submission Success: Beginner 45%, Intermediate 60%, Advanced 75%
  • Variation Switching Success: Beginner 50%, Intermediate 65%, Advanced 80%

Timing Considerations

Optimal Entry Timing: When opponent defends standard saddle entry, when entry angle favors specific variation, during opponent’s transitions between positions

Consolidation Windows: First 5-10 seconds after shallow entry before opponent recognizes and escapes

Variation Switching Timing: When opponent settles into defensive pattern for current variation

Competition Considerations

Strategic Value: Variation proficiency makes you unpredictable and forces opponent to defend multiple configurations. In submission-only formats, this dramatically increases finish rates.

Rule Set Adaptations: Some variations provide better angles for straight ankle locks (IBJJF legal) while others favor heel hooks (ADCC/sub-only legal). Choose variations that maximize available submissions.

Safety Considerations

WARNING: All saddle variations can cause severe knee injuries. While reverse saddle has inferior leverage compared to inside saddle, it’s still capable of ACL/MCL/LCL tears. Shallow saddle being “looser” doesn’t mean it’s safe to finish forcefully. Modified entries from unusual angles can create unexpected stress on joints.

Training Safety: Apply all variations with progressive pressure, establish tap protocols, prioritize partner safety over proving finishing ability. Train with experienced partners who understand injury risks. Start all new variations at minimal intensity.

Master these variations to become a complete, unpredictable leg lock practitioner while maintaining training safety and partner trust.

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