BJJ Submission Matrix | Mapping Your Finishing Game
☰Contents
- Key Concepts
- Building Your Matrix
- High-Percentage Combinations
- Position-to-Submission Mapping
- Developing Your Matrix
- Related Techniques
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to learn Submission Matrix?
- Is Submission Matrix effective for beginners?
- How often should I drill Submission Matrix?
- What positions connect to Submission Matrix?
- More Questions
A submission matrix is a systematic framework for organizing and developing your finishing game. By mapping submissions to positions and understanding the
A submission matrix is a systematic framework for organizing and developing your finishing game. By mapping submissions to positions and understanding the connections between them, practitioners can build a comprehensive and efficient attack system.
📱 Track every roll like the pros
Free forever — heatmap, technique progress, streaks.
Key Concepts
The submission matrix concept involves understanding which submissions are available from each position, which positions lead to which submissions, and how defenses to one submission create opportunities for others. This creates a web of interconnected attacks.
Building Your Matrix
1. List all positions you play from. 2. For each position, identify primary submissions. 3. Map which defenses open secondary submissions. 4. Identify common entry paths to high-percentage submissions. 5. Find the connections between your guards and your finishing game.
High-Percentage Combinations
Armbar-triangle-omoplata chain from closed guard. Kimura-guillotine-north-south choke from top half guard. Rear naked choke-armbar-triangle from back control. Heel hook-knee bar-toe hold from leg entanglement positions.
Position-to-Submission Mapping
Side control connects to: americana, kimura, paper cutter choke, arm triangle. Mount connects to: armbar, triangle, ezekiel, gift wrap. Back control connects to: RNC, bow and arrow, armbar, triangle. Guard connects to: triangle, armbar, omoplata, guillotine.
Developing Your Matrix
Start with mastering 2-3 submissions per position, then add connections. Regular positional drilling reveals the natural submission opportunities. Study footage of elite submitters to understand how they chain attacks. Identify your highest percentage finishes and build the matrix around them.
Related Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to learn Submission Matrix?
Most practitioners develop functional competency with Submission Matrix 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 Submission Matrix effective for beginners?
Yes. Submission Matrix 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 Submission Matrix?
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 Submission Matrix?
BJJ is a linked system. Submission Matrix flows naturally to and from related positions. Study transitions in both directions to build a complete positional game.
More Questions
How do I transition between different submissions effectively using the BJJ Submission Matrix?
The matrix emphasizes understanding the positional relationships and body mechanics that link various submissions. Focus on maintaining control and pressure as you shift your weight and leverage to set up the next attack, rather than simply 'switching' techniques.
What are the key defensive principles to counter a Submission Matrix approach?
The best defense is active defense and positional awareness. Anticipate transitions by understanding common setups, maintain tight hips and frames to prevent advantageous positioning, and be ready to escape or counter the initial attack before it leads to a cascade of submissions.
Is the BJJ Submission Matrix applicable from all positions, or is it position-specific?
While the core principles of the matrix can be adapted to many positions, its effectiveness is often amplified from dominant positions like mount, side control, or back control. Understanding how to apply these concepts from less dominant positions requires a deeper understanding of escapes and transitions.
Common BJJ Problems & FAQ
The core principle of the BJJ Submission Matrix is maintaining positional control and pressure while creating openings. When you're attacking one submission, your body is already in a position to threaten another; for example, if your opponent defends an armbar by posturing up, you can often transition to a triangle choke by dropping your hips and bringing your legs across their neck.
To prevent escapes, focus on 'pinning' your opponent's hips and posture. When attacking an armbar, for instance, keep your hips tight to theirs and use your legs to control their upper body's ability to bridge or turn by either hooking their far arm or leg.
Against larger opponents, prioritize using your body weight and leverage points rather than brute strength. For an armbar, ensure your hips are elevated and driving forward into their shoulder joint, and use your legs to create a fulcrum, squeezing your knees together to isolate their arm.