⬆️ BJJ Mount Control Concepts

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Master BJJ mount control: high mount vs low mount, prevent escapes, advance to back, and attack with armbar, triangle, and chokes.

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Contents

    Mount: The Second Most Dominant Position

    Mount is the most submission-rich top position in BJJ. Your opponent's entire game from bottom mount is defensive — your job is to maintain position, advance to high mount or back, and execute submissions under pressure.

    Mount Variations

    Mount TypePositionPrimary Attacks
    Low mountHips at mid-torsoAmericana, armbar, collar choke
    High mountKnees in armpitsTriangle, armbar, arm lock variations
    S-mountLeg over shoulderArmbar, triangle (immediate finish threat)
    Technical mountTransition to backBack take entry point

    Mount Retention Principles

    • Post early: When they bridge, post your hand/foot before the bridge completes
    • Low hips: Heavy hips eliminate space for the elbow-knee escape
    • Advance constantly: Move toward high mount whenever they defend submissions
    💡 Pro Tip: Use submission threats to advance mount. When they defend an armbar, their arms move away from the elbow-knee escape path — advance your hips higher.

    Transitioning to Back from Mount

    When they turn away to escape, follow with technical mount → seat belt → back control. Many high-level players prefer back over mount for the choke finishing rate.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How do I stop people escaping my mount?
    The two main mount escapes are bridge-and-roll and elbow-knee escape. Counter bridge-and-roll by posting a foot/hand when they bridge. Counter elbow-knee by keeping your hips low and heavy, eliminating the space to insert a knee.
    Should I stay in mount or take the back?
    Both are excellent. Mount offers more submission variety; back control offers the highest submission rate (RNC). If your opponent turns to escape mount, follow them to back control. If they stay flat, attack from mount.
    How do I advance from low mount to high mount?
    When they defend a submission by reaching for your arm or pushing, walk your knees up toward their armpits. Each defensive reaction is an opportunity to advance your hips. Make it a habit to inch forward after every submission attempt.

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    More Questions

    How do I stop my opponent from bridging out of mount?

    To prevent bridging, focus on maintaining tight hip pressure and keeping your weight distributed over their chest and shoulders. Use your knees to control their hips and try to keep your shins across their body, not just on the mat.

    What are the most common mistakes when trying to maintain mount?

    Common mistakes include being too high on the chest, allowing the opponent to create space for their hips, or having your knees too far apart, which gives them room to shrimp. Also, don't let your arms get trapped by their legs.

    How do I transition from mount to other dominant positions?

    Once you have solid mount control, you can look to transition to submissions like armbars or kimuras, or to other dominant positions like S-mount for further control or to set up other attacks. Always maintain pressure and control during transitions.

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