BJJ Position: Back Control

The back mount is one of the most dominant positions in grappling, as it allows you to control your opponent effectively while having a multitude of submission options. It is often considered the ultimate position to achieve due to the ability to attack with minimal risk of counterattack.

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The key aspects of the back mount position

  1. Control: In the back mount, control is established by securing your hooks (feet) around your opponent’s inner thighs or hips, while your chest is pressed against their back. Your arms should be used to maintain upper body control, either with a seatbelt grip (one arm over their shoulder, the other under their armpit) or by securing a figure-four grip (also known as the rear naked choke grip). It’s essential to maintain tight control and pressure, continuously adjusting your position to prevent your opponent from escaping.
  2. Offense: The back mount offers several offensive options, primarily focused on submissions. Some common submissions from the back mount include the rear naked choke, the short choke, the armbar, and the bow and arrow choke. The choice of attack will depend on your opponent’s reactions, posture, and the specific grips you have established. Being patient and methodical in your attacks is crucial, as your opponent’s primary focus will be on escaping and defending against your submission attempts.
  3. Defense: While you are in a dominant position in back mount, it’s important to be aware of your opponent’s potential escape attempts and work to maintain control. Common escape attempts from your opponent may include removing your hooks, turning into your guard, or sliding down and out of your control. Being aware of these potential threats will help you develop appropriate responses and maintain your dominant position.
  4. Transition: The back mount can be used as a starting point for transitioning to other positions or setups, depending on your opponent’s reactions and your own preferences. If your opponent begins to escape, you might transition to positions such as the mount, side control, or even return to a closed or open guard position. Developing the ability to transition smoothly between the back mount and other positions can make you a more dynamic and adaptable grappler.

 

In summary, the back mount position is a dominant and powerful position that emphasizes control, attacking with submissions, and maintaining your dominant position while preventing escapes. By focusing on these aspects, you can develop a strong back mount game that can be challenging for your opponents to deal with. Remember, the key to success in the back mount position is to stay active, constantly adjusting your grips, hooks, and body positioning to maintain control and create opportunities for offense while staying defensively aware.