Side Control BJJ — FREE Curated Videos & Techniques
Side control is a dominant BJJ pin where you stabilize the torso, isolate frames, and advance to attacks or transitions. Below, you’ll find curated side control instructionals, match clips, and concise breakdowns from coaches like John Danaher, Bernardo Faria, Lachlan Giles, and Priit Mihkelson—covering gi and no-gi staples: crossface-underhook, kesa and modified kesa, north-south links, knee-on-belly, and the switch base. Compare systems for shoulder pressure, head-arm control, hip blocks, and windshield-wiper leg work, plus submissions like kimura, americana, arm triangle, paper-cutter, and north-south choke, along with escapes and late-stage survival. Browse the hand-picked videos to see different teaching styles, troubleshoot common mistakes, and plug gaps in your top and bottom game. Keep scrolling, study a few clips, then drill with clear progressions. Read the full Side Control position guide.
Side Control Submissions (Top 20 Videos)
Systematically Attacking The Kimura by Gordon Ryan
$349.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this video, ADCC champion Gordon Ryan provides a detailed teaching of his systematic approach to attacking the Kimura from various situations. He explains how Kimura can be used as a controlling position as well as a submission, and emphasizes the importance of techniques in real-time motion. The video includes training footage of Gordon executing the Kimura in a genuine rolling situation, followed by a thorough breakdown of what he does and why. The video aims to give viewers an understanding of the complete Kimura system as employed by one of the greatest No-Gi grapplers in the world.
Systematically attacking From Top Pins: Side Control & North South by Gordon Ryan
$349.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this video, Gordon Ryan provides detailed instruction on how to effectively execute submissions such as Kimuras, triangles, and armbars from Side Control & North South positions. He explains the concept of isolating and submitting limbs and how to stop escape attempts, thereby ensuring constant control. The system he demonstrates is the one he uses in no-gi grappling, with guidance from his coach, John Danaher. He also breaks down live footage to clearly illustrate the application of the techniques in real-time combat scenarios.
Master The Move: The American Lock by John Danaher
$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics
John Danaher, highly esteemed BJJ coach, delivers a masterclass on the American Lock in this video. Danaher highlights different innovative strategies and positions to implement this submission from top, bottom, or even standing. Emphasizing the finishing mechanics of the position, he discusses using the American Lock as a springboard for other effective submissions, passes, sweeps, takedowns. The video aims to equip viewers with a comprehensive understanding of the American Lock, allowing them to master this essential technique of submission grappling.
Kimura: Enter The System by John Danaher
$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics
John Danaher, a renowned BJJ instructor, introduces his system for the Kimura submission in this instructional video. He advertises this system as an effective and versatile choice both for Gi and No Gi Jiu Jitsu, and even for self-defense purposes. As the teacher of champions including Garry Tonon, Georges St Pierre, and Chris Weidman, Danaher's methods are praised for their efficiency. The Kimura system is said to enhance one's overall understanding and performance in Jiu Jitsu.
Timeless Kimura by Rafael Lovato
$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video features Rafael Lovato Jr., one of the most decorated American Back Belts in BJJ history, demonstrating his method of attacking a kimura. He focuses on how to break grips that may obstruct the application of the technique. Additionally, he shares insights into executing the kimura when passing and reveals some set-ups that he has used in his illustrious competitive BJJ career.
The Yoku Sankaku Side Triangle by Neil Melanson
$190.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video features Neil Melanson, a globally respected and renowned grappling instructor, discussing and teaching on the intricacies of mastering the Yoku Sankaku, a particular form of side triangle. Different methods of transitioning into the sankaku from common positions such as the half guard, k guard and side control are thoroughly explained by Neil. He also highlights how to further utilize this position to lead to other various submission combinations such as armbars, kimuras, and toe holds, among others. His teaching methodology has been shaped by experience in various grappling arts, aiming to provide the most effective techniques.
The Kimura Anthology by Lachlan Giles
$149.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video from Lachlan Giles provides an extensive exploration of the Kimura, a widely used submission in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Giles takes viewers through the process of setting up, finishing, and troubleshooting this move, as well as its many variances. He also demonstrates how to get to the Kimura from a variety of positions including closed guard, half guard, guard passing, and more, providing meticulous details and tips for navigating common defenses. Additionally, he shows how the Kimura can be combined with other attacks for a more robust and aggressive game.
The Real Deal Catch Wrestling Double Wrist Lock by Joel Bane
$127.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The instructional video by Joel Bane, an esteemed figure in catch wrestling, focuses on the 'Double Wrist Lock'. The instructor provides a clear and detailed step-by-step guide on this effective submission technique. From the basic concepts to advanced applications, viewers are taken on a journey to understand and apply this technique. Mastery of this submission will enhance the user's grappling game and is a formidable addition to their skillset.
The Cobrinha Kimura Trap System by Rubens "Cobrinha" Charles
$127.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructional video features Rubens "Cobrinha" Charles, a renowned BJJ competitor, who shares his techniques on how to apply kimura traps from any BJJ position. He offers advice on how to transition seamlessly into armbars, triangles, kimura finishes and more to gain more successful submissions. Cobrinha provides insights on using the kimura trap to execute sweeps, pass guards, and find the back. This instructional video emphasizes the small details that Cobrinha employed to make these techniques effective at elite competition levels.
Fundamentals To Master: Kimura From Side Control by Xande Ribeiro
$127.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video is an instructional video by 8-time black belt world champion Xande Ribeiro. Ribeiro demonstrates how to secure a tight Kimura submission from the side control position. He also explains how to use the Kimura trap to take the back against difficult opponents and make position upgrades. Additionally, the video teaches essential combination Kimura/armlocks and Kimura/armbars that Ribeiro has successfully used in competitions.
Side Control Escapes (Top 20 Videos)
Gracie Fundamentals: Side Control Escapes by Rayron Gracie
$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this instructional video, Rayron Gracie teaches viewers the fundamentals of escaping from side control, a common position in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Gracie breaks down several methods for escaping this position when facing a larger or stronger opponent. He also shows how to defend against common submissions like the arm bar, paper cutter choke, and Kimura, while demonstrating how to regain guard. The instructor emphasizes the importance of timing and the ability to create space, offering a comprehensive and strategic approach to Jiu-Jitsu escapes.
Fundamentals of Side Control Escapes by Pedro Sauer
$149.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this instructional video, Professor Pedro Sauer provides a comprehensive guide on the fundamentals of side control escapes. The techniques focus on using proper framing and body mechanics to create space for efficient escapes, even against opponents who have you in a scarf hold or reverse scarf hold. Sauer also teaches how to use counters and submissions from the bottom of side control to keep an opponent off balance. The viewer is encouraged to use their legs and body movement to improve their escape technique and become more difficult to submit.
Connected Reaction Second Guard (Defense and Escape from Side control) by Paul Schreiner
$149.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this video, instructor Paul Schreiner demonstrates a series of techniques on how to escape from a side control position to re-establish a good position. He refers to these techniques as "Connected Reaction Second Guard" that can be used to frustrate and shut down the opponent's attacks. He provides insights on using lower body dominant strategies and shows how to transform the bottom side control into a secondary system of defense. The viewers will also learn to recognize windows of escape and effectively execute them using Schreiner's personal techniques.
Never Get Smashed: Side Control and Mount Escapes by Gregor Gracie
$149.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video features Gregor Gracie teaching ways to escape from challenging positions like bottom side control and mount, even when up against heavy opponents. Gregor emphasizes the importance of creating space and using an active underhook as a 'get out of jail free card'. He provides tools to strengthen defenses and enhance offenses. Gregor's techniques aim to reduce time spent in unfavorable positions, increasing the time to dominate opponents and perfect submissions.
Essential Side Control Escapes by Shawn Williams
$149.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video features Shawn Williams, an acclaimed Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor, who unveils the strategies and techniques for successfully escaping side control. Derived from Williams' extensive and proven system, each escape method is broken down into easy-to-absorb steps, that make it easy for learners to elevate their ground game. The instructional video goes deeper into the principles behind these methods, providing students with a new perspective that would help revolutionize their approach to escaping side control. Through mastering these techniques, BJJ practitioners would gain a competitive edge in grappling scenarios.
Side Control Escapes: Basics To Advanced Concepts by Andre Galvao
$127.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video tutorial by Andre Galvao, a renowned BJJ practitioner and instructor, demonstrates comprehensive techniques for escaping from the challenging bottom side control position. Starting from the presentation of the basics, it builds up towards more advanced concepts, focusing on maintaining safety and achieving a successful escape. Not only does it emphasize sound fundamental tactics, but it also introduces strategies for reversing into offensive positions as part of the escaping process. Both beginner and advanced students can gain valuable insights from this systematic training guide.
Precision Side Control and Knee on Belly Escapes by Lucas Lepri
$127.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this instructional video, 7-time world champion Lucas Lepri teaches viewers how to effectively escape from various versions of side control, including knee on belly, north-south and headlocks. Lepri offers precise technical advice, breaking down each move step by step so that grapplers of all levels can understand and execute them. The video also teaches viewers how to transition from defensive to offensive moves such as omoplatas, ankle picks, back takes and other sweeps. Lepri's teaching emphasizes precision and effectiveness, making this video beneficial for beginners and advanced students alike.
The White Belt Bible by Roy Dean
$99.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video is a guide by Roy Dean, a reputable black-belt instructor, on escaping the sidemount, which is a prevalent position for beginners in Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ). He discusses the fundamental lessons on employing the concept of off balancing to establish effective throws and sweeps. It demonstrates how to escape sidemount using Roy's advice on a pathway you can use for better freedom. Also, it provides a comprehensive breakdown of the basic BJJ positions, with easy-to-follow tips on what you should focus on to remain safe for longer.
Escapes: Old School Evolution by Fabio Gurgel
$97.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this video, Instructor Fabio Gurgel teaches the 'Old School Evolution' escape from the side control position. The technique is presented as a valuable tool for getting out from under an opponent's control. Fabio emphasizes the importance of detailed knowledge about basic escapes as an effective defense in competitive BJJ matches. As the coach with the most Black Belt World Champions, his teachings hold significant value for practitioners at all levels.
Diamond Concept : Side control and Mount Escapes Plus: Modern Hip Escaping and Vortex Str…
$97.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this instructional video, 8-time black belt world champion, Xande Ribeiro, reveals side control and mount escape strategies that have kept him unpinned for the past 15 years in high-level competitions. He teaches viewers how to frame, shield, pedal, etc., strategically to create space and escape to guard, turtle position, or stand up safely. Xande also includes a recommended exercise routine for strengthening the guard. The video covers escape applications for various positions, such as side control, kesa gatame, north south, mount, half mount, and technical mount.
Side Control Positional Control (17 Videos)
The Side/Mount System Bundle by Roger Gracie
$247.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video features ten-time World Champion Roger Gracie teaching his infamous mount system, focusing in particular on using the dominant side control position. He offers high-percentage techniques to transition from side control to various finishes like armlocks and chokes. Taking an 'old school' approach based on solid fundamentals, he emphasizes the development of a top game after passing the guard. This tutorial gives the learner the opportunity to master the art of BJJ, and make use of dominant positions as game finishers.
Side Control & North South Top Mastery by Rayron Gracie
$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video features renowned instructor Rayron Gracie sharing his knowledge and insights on mastering the crucial top positions, side control and north-south. Known for his innovative approach aligning with the fundamentals practiced by his ancestors, Rayron's instruction aims to refine techniques and enhance understanding for both seasoned practitioners and dedicated students. The focus is on studying variations of classic techniques using a modern approach to assert dominance on the mat.
New Wave Jiu Jitsu: Side Attacks - Building a Devastating Side Control System by John Dan…
$197.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video is an instructional guide by John Danaher on mastering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) skill in controlling, submitting, and dominating opponents from the side control position. In this comprehensive course, he covers the best submission holds to apply from side position, including but not limited to kimuras, sankaku, and juji gatame. Danaher provides a 4-step method to win from side control and how to shut down opponent's escape routes from side control. Further, he shares insightful strategies to troubleshoot potential issues within the 4-step system.
Side Control Dominance by Andre Galvao
$149.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video features Andre Galvao, a 6-time IBJJF World Champion and ADCC World Champion, teaching how to effectively dominate from the side control position. Andre demonstrates how to advance your position using simple mounts and back takes to avoid getting placed back into guard. Additionally, he provides comprehensive instruction on fundamental submissions from side control, emphasizing techniques that have helped him successfully throughout his BJJ career.
The Roger Gracie Side Control System by Roger Gracie
$149.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video features 10-time World Champion, Roger Gracie, teaching his system of side control which includes powerful submissions and successful transitions. He presents various techniques used in competitions with precise detail, demonstrating various attacks from side control including lapel chokes, triangle chokes, and armlocks. The video also includes instructions on how to safely transition from side control to mount without risking position. Roger Gracie emphasizes a technically focused game with effective basics.
The Complete Side Control System by Marcelo Garcia
$149.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The Complete Side Control System by Marcelo Garcia is an instructional BJJ video on how to maintain and dominate fights from the side control position. In this video, 9-time World Champion Marcelo Garcia shares his proven techniques and strategies for controlling larger opponents and how to reach various submission stages safely. Marcelo also provides tips on how to prevent escapes, transition to more dominant positions (like mounting and taking the back), and successfully execute different submissions such as secure chokes, armbars, omoplata, among others. Garcia's side control system is shown in very detailed steps, making it a beneficial learning tool for all levels of grapplers.
Zone Jiu-Jitsu Side Control by Paul Schreiner
$149.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this instructional video, Paul Schreiner, a seasoned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) instructor from Marcelo Garcia Academy, presents an intelligently designed blueprint for top side control domination. The ZONE Jiu-Jitsu system taught aims at systematizing the learner's approach to different scenarios, executing high percentage attacks and transitions from top side control. The viewer will learn to apply crucial shoulder pressure, handling common frames and roadblocks, and effectively transitioning to mount and the back. The techniques outlined serve athletes both in training and high-level competition.
Cross Side Domination by Professor Henry Akins
$139.50 • BJJ Fanatics
In this video, Professor Henry Akins teaches the viewer essential controlling concepts and techniques from a variety of cross side positions. He emphasizes the importance of weight distribution in maintaining heavy pressure, all while creating opportunities for submissions. Offering practical tips on how to apply pressure without unnecessary exertion of strength, he also introduces his unique 'super chill' position which combines energy conservation with effective top pressure application. The tutorial also includes lessons on how to improve cross side attacks including submissions like armbars, lapel chokes and kimuras.
Side Control Transitions (13 Videos)
The Complete Bundle by Marcelo Garcia
$747.00 • BJJ Fanatics
Marcelo Garcia's masterclass video covers in-depth techniques on passing the no-gi guard, navigating to dominant positions, and specifically applying the North-South choke. Lessons also include strategies to dominate from the side control, even against larger opponents, using attacking techniques for better positioning and submissions. Marcelo further explains how to completely control the mount and break down the opponent for a submission.
The Flow Chart System: Attacking From Top Part 1 by Eric Laporte
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video by Eric Laporte explores the flow chart system - attacking from top series, focused on dominating from side control. He discusses transitioning between different kinds of chokes and arm attacks, with a particular emphasis on using lapel chokes with baseball bat variations and x chokes. Laporte provides strategies for reacting to your opponent's response to lapel chokes. He also shares methods for attacking from top half guard, including guard passes and finishes. The tutorial also delves into the technical aspects of attacking the turtle position.
Side Control Guard Passing (4 Videos)
Guard Passing Mastery by Henry Akins
$279.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video features a comprehensive Guard Passing mastery program by BJJ expert, Henry Akins. The focus of the teaching is to give students the knowledge and tools to control and pass their opponents with ease. The video, hosted by Henry Akins, a highly experienced black belt under Rickson Gracie, delivers invaluable insights and techniques relating to advantageous angles for guard passing. It mentions a particular emphasis on side control and offers a detailed understanding of weight distribution, pressure, and precise guard pass techniques.
Side Control Survival/Defense (4 Videos)
The Running Man & The Baby Bridge: Essential Postures To Keep You Safe by Priit Mihke…
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
In this video, Priit Mihkelson, a known authority on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) efficiency and energy conservation, teaches two fundamental postures — "The Running Man" and "The Baby Bridge". These postures are key for a defensive strategy to help conserve energy and prevent opponents from achieving dominant positions. The instruction focuses on escaping side control, a common dominant position in BJJ, by using these two techniques, which can make it nearly impossible for rivals to settle in and gain dominance.
Side Control Guard Retention (1 Videos)
Aggressive Bottom Side & Side Butterfly Guard by Kent Peters
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video primarily features BJJ and Judo black belt, Kent Peters, teaching his innovative approach to Brazilian Jiu-jitsu with a focus on the bottom side control and side butterfly guard positions. He shares strategies for setting up plenty of submission traps in overly aggressive opponents looking to keep the viewers in a pinned down situation. He also includes surprise submission techniques such as the bicep slicer, ghost Darce, reverse triangles and armbars. Peters instills the idea of maintaining an offensive approach even from a supposedly disadvantageous position like bottom side control.
Side Control Concepts/Strategy (1 Videos)
The Side Theory Of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu by Tony Pacenski
$79.00 • BJJ Fanatics
This video, presented by Tony Pacenski, introduces and elaborates on the "Side Theory" in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). It focuses on the understanding of different zones and breaking mechanics from standing position and how to effectively incorporate this theory into your game, transitioning from the arm drag to the x-guard sequence. Additionally, the instructor explains how to utilize the side theory from the closed guard to improve the effectiveness of attacks. The video also discusses various arm locks, chokes, grip breaks, and leg attacks from different angles.
Side Control Other (1 Videos)
Killer Leglocks From Side Control by Erik Paulson
$97.00 • BJJ Fanatics
The video features combat sports legend Erik Paulson teaching leg attacks from the side control position. It provides a unique attacking system that expands on your leg lock game and side control toolbox. The video doesn't just cover leg lock entries, set-ups, and finishes, it also dives into control tactics. This includes instructions on implementing knee bars, ankle locks, toe holds, shin locks, and heel hooks from various side control variations.