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Front Mount

Quick Introduction​

The mount is a ground control position where you sit on top of the opponent's torso. It controls, exhausts, and creates finishing options. One of the most dominant positions in BJJ.

Position Overview​

From: Guard passing, takedowns, transitions from side control | Leads to: Submissions, transitions to back mount

Low Mount (Control Focus)​

  1. Cross feet under/behind opponent's hips (prevents half guard recovery)
  2. Hips press against opponent's diaphragm — equal weight distribution
  3. If opponent bridges, hook with foot opposite to movement direction
  4. Hug head and isolate at least one arm

Key detail: Conservative approach. Ideal for tiring opponents and forcing defensive openings.

Medium Mount (Balanced)​

  1. Distribute weight between their belly and your pinching knees
  2. Connect feet (big toe to big toe) to prevent guard recovery
  3. If losing stability, hug head and place chest over face for pressure

Key detail: Most versatile — good for both controlling and attacking.

High Mount (Offensive)​

  1. Sit higher, close to opponent's chest
  2. Knees pinch high near armpits, arms as underhooks
  3. Control head with hands, keep it elevated
  4. Expose arms above shoulder line

Key detail: Creates many submission opportunities (armbar, triangle, americana). Requires attention to base.

S-Mount (Transitional)​

  1. Follow opponent's turn without lifting hips
  2. Place sole of foot under opponent's armpit
  3. Sit on hips, press heel against back of your knee
  4. Attack quickly — this is an opportunity position

Key detail: Transitional for armlocks and triangles. Can also transition to back mount by establishing seatbelt and inserting hooks.

Core Principles​

  1. Head control is mandatory — Almost always required during mount
  2. Arm exposure — Raise opponent's arms above shoulder line (~90°) for submissions
  3. Patience — Don't rush submissions after achieving mount; position first
  4. Transitions — If losing mount, transition to back (don't fight to hold mount)
  5. Adaptability — Choose mount type: low (control), medium (balanced), high (attack), S-mount (opportunistic)

Common Mistakes​

MistakeFix
Rushing submissionsValue position first; submissions come from stable control
Poor weight distributionHips low and heavy; distribute weight properly
Ignoring transitionsIf mount unstable, take the back instead of fighting
Posting too highStay low; high posture invites bridges and escapes

Next Steps​

  1. Back Mount - Transition when losing mount
  2. Armbar - Primary mount submission
  3. Mount Escapes - Understand both sides