To achieve this, you must move up the opponent’s hip line to prevent them from reversing the position. In mount, your goal is to isolate the opponent’s head and arm so you can apply different submissions like the mounted and arm triangle, armbar, Americana, kimura, and variations of collar chokes. The mount is the next pin grapplers usually transition to from side control. After securing the position, the most common submissions you can apply are the kimura, Americana, armbar, and different collar chokes in the gi. Doing so prevents them from framing or shrimping, as they can use it to create space and escape. Your goal in side control is to pin the opponent’s upper body as you block their hips. It is the first dominant position you should look for if you have successfully passed the guard before transitioning to other pins like the knee on belly, mount, or back mount (if the opponent turns to their back).

When you are the top player, the typical goal is to first go to side control and pressure the opponent from there. This gives you a few seconds to quickly pass their guard and go directly to a pin. A successful takedown will typically surprise the opponent. After the takedown, the next initiative of the top player is to secure a dominant position. After passing the guard, the next objective of the top player is to move to pins like side control, and advance from there.įrom the stand up, grapplers may achieve the top position if they take the opponent down successfully. Inside the guard, the top player is the one trapped inside the opponent’s leg configuration. In passing situations, the top player is the one looking to advance by passing the guard. The top position is where a grappler stays on top of their opponent. Combining the turtle with movements like the granby roll and sit-out is essential to keep yourself as dynamic as possible. Keep your neck, arms, and head tight to your body to prevent the opponent from applying submissions or turning you over. It is called the turtle position because you assume a low and defensive stance, similar to how a turtle reacts when it feels threatened. It is also a common position to go to when working your way up from inferior positions like bottom side control. The turtle is a defensive position typically used after a failed takedown. It is the most sought-after position for stability and is extensively utilized before transitioning to other pins. Your legs are used to block their hip to prevent them from escaping. Side control is where you lay perpendicular to your opponent and maintain a chest-to-chest connection. It is typically the first position you want to achieve after passing the guard. This position is the most dominant in grappling because the opponent cannot see your attacks as you are behind them.īigger and stronger grapplers tend to gravitate to the side control pin, and with good reason – it is a very challenging position to escape from. Your hands are used to control theirs, maintain a chest-to-back connection (seatbelt grip), and apply submissions. It is a position where you are behind the opponent with both legs wrapped around their body (body triangle) or placed near the hip (hooks) to keep them in place. The back mount is the most dominant position in BJJ. A successful back take means you can control your opponent and capitalize by attacking their neck. Taking the back is another premier position and is most preferred by grapplers who like to work on strangles. Pins are a crucial part of grappling as it allows you to restrict movement and stay safe. Passing the guard opens up opportunities to work on pins and back attacks. In fact, in sport BJJ, pulling guard is a common tactic grapplers use even at the highest level. While the top position is the ideal position to be in, this does not make the guard any less intriguing.

Because of the rewarding nature of the guard, the first rule is often forgotten. When on the bottom, have a guard that the opponent cannot pass. The golden rule of grappling is this – be the guy on top. This article will guide you to the hierarchy of positions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Most of the time, a sparring session in BJJ starts with one grappler playing their top game while the other plays guard. Jiu-Jitsu is unique because, unlike other grappling styles, you place equal importance on both top and bottom positions. Chapter 1: Hierarchy of Positions (A Guide to BJJ Positions)Ĭhapter 2: Guards (Closed and Open Guard)Ĭhapter 11 Common Mistakes/Concepts For BeginnersĬhapter 13: Etiquette And Tips For Your First ClassĬhapter 14: Choosing A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gym

Gracie jiu jitsu moves