High vs. Low Mount
Low mount (hips near opponent's hips) provides stability and makes escape attempts difficult. High mount (hips near the chest/armpits) opens submission opportunities but is harder to maintain. Elite grapplers switch between the two fluidly.
Weight Distribution in Mount
Never post your weight on your hands β keep it all on your hips. Hands should float or be actively attacking. Hip-to-hip contact creates the most stable, heaviest mount. Sink your weight into the mat through the opponent.
The Grapevine vs. Foot Positions
Grapevine (feet hooked inside opponent's legs) immobilizes the bottom player completely but limits your mobility. Feet-flat position (feet outside the hips) allows better movement for submission entries. Choose based on opponent's escape attempts.
Arm Control Hierarchy
From mount, arm control determines your submission options. Underhook = Ezekiel choke or gift wrap. Overhook = armbar or triangle setup. Both arms free = crossface and collar choke options.
Preventing the Upa and Elbow Escape
The two main mount escapes are upa (bridge and roll) and elbow escape. For upa: widen your base and post a hand when you feel the bridge. For elbow escape: keep knees heavy on the ground, float your hips to counter the hip escape.
Step 1: Establish Base and Weight
When transitioning to mount, immediately widen your knees and drop your hips. Crossface the head with one arm to control posture and prevent the upa before it starts.
Step 2: Choose Your Height
Assess the situation: opponent is bridging β drop to low mount and widen knees. Opponent is flat β advance to high mount and start working submission grips.
Step 3: Control the Arms
Reach down and collect an underhook, or use a palm-down post on the shoulder to begin working the gift wrap. Arm control is the gateway to every mount submission.
Step 4: Attack with Submission Chains
In high mount, attack the Ezekiel choke first. If defended, work to S-mount for the armbar. If they straighten the arm, transition to the triangle. The chain prevents any single defensive answer.
Step 5: Maintain Through Transitions
When the opponent successfully starts an elbow escape, float your hips and slide your knee back in under their thigh. Constantly readjust your position to stay ahead of the escape attempt.