The mount is one of the most dominant positions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. From here, you can strike (in MMA), submit, or transition to other dominant positions. This guide covers how to maintain mount and finish fights from this powerful position.
What Is Mount Position?
Mount is when you sit on top of your opponent is torso, knees on the ground, controlling their upper body. It is a 4-point position in competition and a fight-ending position in self-defense.
Maintaining Mount Control
Low Mount vs High Mount
Low Mount: Sitting on their hips. More stable but less threatening.
High Mount: Sitting on their chest/armpits. More attacks available but easier to escape.
Key Control Points
- Knees tight against their body
- Weight forward (heavy chest)
- Underhooks when possible
- React to their bridge attempts
Countering Common Escapes
Bridge and Roll (Upa)
When they bridge hard:
- Post one hand and one foot
- Base out wide
- Transition to technical mount if they roll
Elbow Escape
When they create space with elbows:
- Drop weight and drive forward
- Use grapevines to control legs
- Transition to S-mount
Submissions from Mount
Cross Collar Choke
Classic BJJ submission from mount:
- Grab deep in opponent is collar
- Second hand grips opposite side
- Pull and squeeze
Armbar from Mount
- Attack American (arm triangle setup)
- If they defend, transition to armbar
- Step over head, sit back
Arm Triangle (Head and Arm)
- One arm under their head
- Other arm traps their arm
- Squeeze and drop shoulder
Transitions from Mount
To Back Mount
When they turn to escape, take the back:
- They expose back while escaping
- One hook in immediately
- Secure second hook and choke
To Side Control
If mount is being lost, transition to side control:
- Prevent full escape
- Slide to side control as they turn
- Maintain top position
To North-South
Spin 180 degrees to north-south:
- Confuses opponent
- Opens kimura attacks
- Good for controlling without submissions
Drills to Improve Mount
Mount Retention Drill
Partner tries to escape for 2 minutes, you maintain mount. Switch roles.
Submission Chains
Practice transitioning between:
- Cross collar to armbar
- Arm triangle to mount
- Mount to back mount
Common Mistakes
- Sitting too high (easy to roll off)
- Sitting too low (no submission threat)
- Not reacting to bridges
- Crossing ankles under opponent (ankle lock risk)
- Staying still (they will escape)
Bottom Line
Mount is a fight-ending position when used correctly. Maintain heavy pressure, threaten submissions constantly, and transition smoothly when they escape. The best mount players are always attacking – never just sitting there.