TECHNIQUES:

1- BEAR HUG DEFENSE (UNDER ARMS): Key to a rear bear hug defense when the opponent is under your arms is your ability to avoid lifting throws. By dropping to all fours, your opponent will be dealing with a much heavier opponent and this gives you time to reach through and grab his leg for the kneebar counter as he seeks to load you up for a throw! This movement will also be your first introduction to the kneebar submission.
2- REAR BEAR HUG DEFENSE (UNDER ARMS) WITH LIFT: When an opponent has his arms under your arms in a bear hug, your biggest risk is being lifted and thrown. Make your body feel heavy by hooking his leg with your leg and lifting your arms above your head to feel taller. Once he puts you down to rest, continue with the previous knee bar counter.
3- FULL NELSON HUG DEFENSE WIDE STANCE: The full-nelson is the bane of many middle schoolers, though the technique is easy to counter with base and pressure against the hands to pop free of the grip!