BJJ North-South <strong>Position</strong> — Attacks, Chokes & <strong>Kimura</strong> System

North-south is an often underutilized but highly effective dominant position. Positioned perpendicular to your opponent with hip-to-hip pressure, north-south creates unique submission opportunities — particularly the kimura, reverse triangle, arm attacks, and north-south choke. This guide covers establishing, maintaining, and attacking from this powerful position.

Contents

Establishing and Maintaining North-South

Transition to north-south by walking your hips perpendicular to your opponent from side control or mount. Apply hip pressure to their shoulder girdle and keep your weight distributed through your hips, not your hands. Countering their escapes — the bridge, the guard recovery — requires stepping with your feet and shifting your center of gravity.

The Kimura from North-South

The north-south kimura is one of the highest-percentage submissions in BJJ. Isolate the far arm, figure-four the wrist and elbow, and finish by driving their hand toward their shoulder blade. The key is securing the arm before the opponent tucks it — use your chest pressure to create the opening.

North-South Choke

The north-south choke (marcelotine) involves trapping the near arm, establishing a deep under-neck grip, and using shoulder pressure to compress the carotid arteries. It's a blood choke that can be applied from both sides, and particularly effective on opponents who bridge or turn into you during escape attempts.

Arm Attacks and Reverse Triangle

From north-south, attack the near arm with a straight armbar by stepping over the head and extending. The reverse triangle (inverted triangle) traps both arm and neck from a perpendicular angle, creating a unique choke that is difficult to defend. These attacks chain naturally with the kimura system.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to learn North South Position Attacks?

Most practitioners develop functional competency with North South Position Attacks within 3–6 months of consistent drilling. Mastery — the ability to execute reliably in live rolling against resisting opponents — typically takes 1–2 years.

Is North South Position Attacks effective for beginners?

Yes. North South Position Attacks is part of the core BJJ curriculum and taught at all belt levels. Beginners should focus on the fundamental mechanics and concepts before refining advanced entries.

How often should I drill North South Position Attacks?

3–5 times per week is ideal for rapid skill acquisition. Even 10 focused repetitions per session compounds over time — consistency matters more than volume.

What positions connect to North South Position Attacks?

BJJ is a linked system. North South Position Attacks flows naturally to and from related positions. Study transitions in both directions to build a complete positional game.