BJJ Knee-on-Belly: Control, Points and Submissions
BJJBJJ App Team·⏱️ 1 min read·🔄 Mar 31, 2026
Master BJJ knee-on-belly: pressure, points, kimura entries, armbar setups and transitions to mount.
Knee-on-belly is a high-scoring, high-pressure position worth 2 points in competition. It is excellent for creating discomfort, forcing reactions and transitioning to submissions.
Contents
Knee-on-Belly Mechanics
- Place the knee across the belly button — not the ribs (too high) or hips (too low).
- Post the far foot wide for a stable base.
- Keep the near hand grabbing the collar or near arm — never both hands on the mat.
Submissions from KOB
| Submission | Entry | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Kimura | Near arm extends to frame | Figure-four the wrist, rotate shoulder |
| Armbar (rolling) | Far arm isolated | Step over, fall into armbar |
| Collar choke | Deep collar grip established | Drive knee, pull collar |
KOB Transitions
- KOB → mount: drive knee forward as opponent defends.
- KOB → north-south: spin when they push the knee.
- KOB → back: when they turn away, take the back.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many points is knee-on-belly in BJJ?
Knee-on-belly scores 2 points in IBJJF competition when the position is held for 3 seconds with control.
What submissions work from knee-on-belly?
The kimura, armbar and collar choke are the primary submissions from knee-on-belly. The kimura is particularly effective because the bottom player often frames with straight arms.
How do I prevent being swept from knee-on-belly?
Keep the far hand light — don't post on the mat near the opponent's head. When they turn into you, post the knee and transition to mount or north-south.