π BJJ Top Game Fundamentals
Master BJJ top game: how to establish heavy side control, advance to mount and back and finish from dominant positions.
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A strong top game controls the pace of the match. Learn to establish tight positions, advance through the positional hierarchy and create submission finishes from on top.
Side Control Fundamentals
- Near hip block: Block the near hip with your body weight to prevent hip escape.
- Crossface: Drive your shoulder into the face to control the head and shoulders.
- North-south transitions: Rotate to north-south to reset and apply pressure.
Advancing to Mount
- Knee mount β technical mount β full mount progression.
- Move slowly and keep weight β don't jump to mount and get swept.
- Trap the arm or head before committing to mount.
Submissions from Top
| Position | High-percentage Submission |
|---|---|
| Side control | Kimura, americana, north-south choke |
| Mount | Armbar, triangle, RNC transition |
| Knee-on-belly | Kimura, armbar (rolling) |
| Back control | RNC, bow-and-arrow choke |
Frequently Asked Questions
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Common Mistakes in Top Game Fundamentals
Sitting Too High
Mounting high on the chest gives your partner room to bridge and roll. Sit low β hips near the belt line β and sprawl your weight through your knees.
Reaching Forward Too Early
Leaning forward to grab the collar before establishing hooks invites the upa escape. Secure weight distribution before attacking.
Neglecting Hip Control
Without controlling the hips through knee pressure and foot hooks, escapes become trivially easy. Drive knees inward and maintain active pressure.
Abandoning Base
Losing base while attacking submissions allows reversals. Keep your base wide, weight centered, and never over-commit to a single attack.
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Get Free Access βMore Questions
What are the most important positions to control from the top in BJJ?
The most fundamental top positions are side control, mount, and knee-on-belly. Mastering these allows for effective pressure, submission opportunities, and preventing your opponent from escaping.
How do I maintain top pressure without getting swept?
Maintain a low center of gravity and keep your weight distributed over your opponent's hips and chest. Constantly adjust your hips and base to counter their movements and prevent them from creating space.
What are the basic submission options from top positions?
From side control, common submissions include the americana and kimura. From mount, the armbar and cross-collar choke are primary options. Knee-on-belly offers opportunities for chokes and armbars as well.