BJJ Top Game Fundamentals: Control, Advance and Finish
BJJBJJ App Team·⏱️ 1 min read·🔄 Mar 31, 2026
Master BJJ top game: how to establish heavy side control, advance to mount and back and finish from dominant positions.
A strong top game controls the pace of the match. Learn to establish tight positions, advance through the positional hierarchy and create submission finishes from on top.
Contents
Side Control Fundamentals
- Near hip block: Block the near hip with your body weight to prevent hip escape.
- Crossface: Drive your shoulder into the face to control the head and shoulders.
- North-south transitions: Rotate to north-south to reset and apply pressure.
Advancing to Mount
- Knee mount → technical mount → full mount progression.
- Move slowly and keep weight — don't jump to mount and get swept.
- Trap the arm or head before committing to mount.
Submissions from Top
| Position | High-percentage Submission |
|---|---|
| Side control | Kimura, americana, north-south choke |
| Mount | Armbar, triangle, RNC transition |
| Knee-on-belly | Kimura, armbar (rolling) |
| Back control | RNC, bow-and-arrow choke |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the positional hierarchy in BJJ?
The general hierarchy from most to least dominant: back control → mount → knee-on-belly → side control → half guard top → guard top (opponent's guard). Advancing up the hierarchy scores points.
How do I get heavy on top in BJJ?
Three keys: 1) Keep your weight distributed through your hips and knees, not on your hands. 2) Move with your opponent rather than against. 3) Block the near hip with your body.
What is the best submission from top?
The armbar from mount is the highest-percentage submission from top control, followed by the rear naked choke from back control and the bow and arrow choke with collar.