5 Best Flips To Side Mount Techniques

When it comes to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), mastering the side mount position can be a game-changer in your grappling journey. The side mount, or "kesa gatame," is where you have control over your opponent's torso while being positioned to either apply submissions or advance to more dominant positions. In this post, we’ll break down five of the best flips to side mount techniques that can elevate your skillset and enhance your performance on the mat. 🥋

Understanding Side Mount Basics

Before diving into the techniques, let’s quickly recap what makes side mount such a strong position:

• Control: You have the ability to control your opponent’s movement, limiting their escape options.
• Submissions: The side mount offers numerous opportunities for submission attempts.
• Transitions: It can lead you into more advantageous positions like mount or back control.

Now, let's explore these five effective techniques that will help you transition smoothly into side mount.

1. The Basic Side Mount Flip

This is the foundational move that helps you gain control.

Steps:

1. Start from a dominant position, like the guard or mount.
2. Secure your opponent’s arm and hip with your hands.
3. Shift your weight to your knees while pushing your opponent’s shoulder down with your shoulder.
4. Swing your legs around to their side, maintaining pressure until you’re in side mount.

Key Tip: Keep your hips low and avoid exposing your back to prevent reversals.

2. The Hip Escape Flip

A great technique for when your opponent tries to escape.

Steps:

1. From top position, monitor your opponent’s hips and shoulders.
2. As they begin to bridge or roll, quickly shift your weight to your opposite knee.
3. Use your free leg to hook around their waist, flipping them into side mount while you move to the side.

Key Tip: Timing is crucial here. React quickly as you see your opponent trying to escape!

3. The Shoulder Pressure Flip

This technique puts added pressure on your opponent.

Steps:

1. Establish a solid side control on your opponent.
2. Use your shoulder to apply pressure to their face or chest, immobilizing them.
3. Use your free arm to create leverage by reaching over their head and gripping their far side.
4. Roll them onto their side and slide into your desired side mount position.

Key Tip: Maintain your weight distribution; the more pressure you apply, the more controlled the flip will be.

4. The Knee Slide Flip

This technique is especially useful for quick transitions.

Steps:

1. Start in a combat base position.
2. Use your closest knee to slide across your opponent's body as you push with your other knee.
3. Keep your head low and chest forward while driving your opponent down.
4. Finish the flip by placing your other knee on the mat next to their hips, completing the move into side mount.

Key Tip: This technique works best when your opponent is trying to turn towards you.

5. The Rolling Flip

For when you're dealing with a highly active opponent.

Steps:

1. Begin in guard or half guard position.
2. As your opponent pushes into you, use their momentum.
3. Roll backward while controlling their body and flipping them over your shoulder.
4. As you come up, transition smoothly into side mount.

Key Tip: Be careful with this move; ensure your surroundings are safe, as it involves rolling back.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While these techniques can be powerful, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcommitting: Many practitioners overcommit their weight, which can result in being reversed.
• Loss of Control: Always prioritize maintaining control over your opponent to prevent escapes.
• Poor Timing: Perform these flips too early or late, and they can easily backfire. Always keep an eye on your opponent's movements.

Troubleshooting Issues

If you find yourself struggling with these techniques, consider the following:

• Ask for feedback: Working with a partner can help you identify what you’re doing wrong.
• Drill repeatedly: Repetition is key. The more you practice, the more natural these flips will become.
• Visualize: Sometimes, watching skilled practitioners execute these moves can give you new insights.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is side mount in BJJ?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Side mount is a dominant grappling position where you control your opponent from the side, allowing for control, submissions, and transitions to other positions.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I improve my side mount transitions?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Practice drilling the techniques consistently, focus on maintaining control, and pay attention to your opponent’s movements to respond quickly.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is side mount effective for self-defense?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, side mount can be an effective self-defense position as it allows you to control your opponent while being in a stable and safe position.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What common submissions can I do from side mount?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Some common submissions include the Americana, Kimura, and various choke techniques, including the cross face choke.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

To sum up, mastering the flips to side mount can significantly enhance your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu game. Each technique presented here provides a solid foundation for controlling your opponent and transitioning into submissions. Remember, practice makes perfect! Keep refining your skills and exploring other tutorials related to BJJ. 🥋

<p class="pro-note">🌟Pro Tip: Consistency in practice is key to mastering these techniques; don't rush—take your time to learn!</p>