The Ultimate Guide to BJJ Positions (Explained Simply For Beginners)
- Jimmy Rose, lifelong martial artist & BJJ enthusiast
- Feb 4
- 1 min read
The Ultimate Guide to BJJ Positions (Explained Simply For Beginners)
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is built around a series of core positions. Understanding these positions helps you learn faster, roll more intelligently, and progress with confidence.
Here is a simple breakdown of the major BJJ positions:
1. Closed Guard
You wrap your legs around your opponent’s waist.
Purpose: Control, break posture, attack submissions.
2. Open Guard
Your legs are not locked but used to create distance.
Purpose: Sweeps, grips, transitions.
3. Half Guard
You trap one of your opponent’s legs.
Purpose: Sweeps, underhooks, transitions to full guard.
4. Side Control
You control your opponent from the side.
Purpose: Pressure, submissions, transitions to mount.
5. Mount
You sit on your opponent’s torso.
Purpose: High control and strong submissions.
6. Back Control
You control your opponent from behind with hooks.
Purpose: The strongest finishing position.
7. Turtle
Your opponent is on all fours.
Purpose: Attacks, back takes, transitions.
8. North-South
You control your opponent from above their head.
Purpose: Submissions and transitions.
9. Standing
The fight begins on the feet.
Purpose: Takedowns and grips.
Why Positions Matter
Positions determine control, safety, and opportunity. Mastering them gives you a roadmap for every roll.
