BJJ Position: Side Control

The side control position is a dominant and controlling position that allows you to immobilize your opponent while setting up submissions, transitions, and maintaining positional control. In this position, you are perpendicular to your opponent, with your chest pressed against their chest, and their arm on the same side as your head draped over your shoulder.

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Master the Art of Straight Armlock from Side Control: A Roger Gracie Special

The key aspects of the side control position

  1. Control: In the side control position, control is established by maintaining strong pressure on your opponent’s upper body, with your chest pressed against theirs and your head positioned close to theirs to limit their mobility. Your arms should be used to secure underhooks, crossface, or other grips that help maintain upper body control and limit your opponent’s movement. Your legs should be sprawled out wide, with your knees close to your opponent’s body to prevent them from regaining guard.
  2. Offense: The side control position offers several offensive options, primarily focused on submissions and transitions. Some common submissions from side control include the americana, the kimura, the arm triangle choke, and the far-side armbar. The choice of attack will depend on your opponent’s reactions, posture, and the specific grips you have established. In addition to submissions, side control is an excellent position for transitioning to more dominant positions such as mount, knee-on-belly, or back control.
  3. Defense: While you are in a dominant position in side control, 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 bridging and rolling, pushing your hips or head to create space, or attempting to slip their arm under your body to regain guard. Being aware of these potential threats will help you develop appropriate responses and maintain your dominant position.
  4. Transition: The side control position can be used as a starting point for transitioning to other positions or setups, depending on your opponent’s reactions and your own preferences. You might transition to more dominant positions such as mount, knee-on-belly, or even the back mount. Developing the ability to transition smoothly between side control and other positions can make you a more dynamic and adaptable grappler.

 

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