BJJ Wiki βΊ π BJJ Scoring System Explained
π BJJ Scoring System Explained
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Beginner
Understanding the BJJ scoring system is essential for competitive success. Points reward positional dominance; advantages serve as tiebreakers. Submissions win regardless of score.
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IBJJF Point Values
| Action | Points | Requirements |
|---|
| Takedown | 2 | Bring opponent to ground, establish top position for 3 sec |
| Knee on belly | 2 | Knee on stomach, other leg extended, 3 sec |
| Guard pass | 3 | Clear legs and establish side/north-south for 3 sec |
| Sweep | 2 | Reverse from bottom guard to top position, 3 sec |
| Mount | 4 | Both knees on mat beside torso, 3 sec |
| Back control | 4 | Both hooks or seatbelt, 3 sec |
Advantages
| Situation | Advantage Awarded |
|---|
| Near submission (tap not achieved) | 1 advantage |
| Near pass (not held 3 sec) | 1 advantage |
| Near takedown | 1 advantage |
| Near mount/back control | 1 advantage |
Tiebreaker order: 1. Points β 2. Advantages β 3. Penalties β 4. Referee decision
Pro Tip: In tight matches, advantage accumulation often decides the winner. Training to threaten submissions β even without finishing β generates advantages that win matches.
FAQ
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Common BJJ Problems & FAQ
Q: As a complete beginner in BJJ, how do I understand the points awarded for positions like mount and back control, and what's the most efficient way to achieve them?
To score mount, you need to establish control with your hips heavy on your opponent's torso and both knees on the mat, preventing them from bridging or turning. For back control, secure both hooks with your feet inside their thighs and maintain upper body control by grabbing their collar and sleeve, ensuring their back is firmly against your chest.
Q: I'm struggling to understand when a sweep is considered 'complete' for points in BJJ, and what specific body movements are crucial to ensure I get the points rather than just ending up in a scramble?
A sweep is awarded points when you successfully reverse your opponent's position and establish yourself in a dominant top position (guard, side control, mount, or back control) for at least three seconds. The key biomechanics involve using your hips to generate leverage, driving your opponent's weight over their base and transitioning your hips to a superior angle to secure your new dominant position.
Q: When I manage to get a takedown in BJJ, how do I ensure I'm actually awarded the points and not just ending up in a bad position or giving my opponent an easy guard pass opportunity?
To secure takedown points, you must bring your opponent to the mat and immediately establish control for at least three seconds, typically by settling into a dominant top position like side control or knee-on-belly. This involves driving through your opponent with your hips, maintaining a strong base, and using your grips to prevent them from regaining guard or escaping.