Video: How to mat return properly by LI MMA. Not affiliated with MatRecap; their version may differ from this drill.
Technique recap
When an opponent stands up from bottom, the mat return lifts and returns them to the mat safely and legally, keeping you in control.
3 key details
- Lock the waist with hips tight to them.
- Lift with your legs, not your back.
- Sweep the leg and return them under control.
Your 10-minute home drill
- 2:00Rear-lock posture
- 3:00Lift with legs
- 3:00Return pattern
- 2:00Lower-back stretch
Safety
No slams; return with control on mats.
Instructor disclaimer
Follow your instructor's version. Schools and styles teach this technique differently. This page is general education, not a substitute for qualified instruction.
