The mounted triangle is one of the most effective and visually impressive submissions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Transitioning into this submission from side control adds an extra layer of control and surprise to your game. Not only does it look flashy, but it also demonstrates a high level of skill in maintaining positional dominance while setting up a finish.
Let’s break down how to execute the mounted triangle from side control, why it’s such a powerful submission, and how to refine the details to make it work against skilled opponents.
What is the Mounted Triangle?
The mounted triangle is a submission where you use your legs to trap your opponent’s neck and one arm, cutting off blood flow to the brain and achieving a choke. By transitioning into this submission from side control, you maintain a dominant position, ensuring you stay in control even if your opponent escapes the triangle.
Setting Up the Mounted Triangle from Side Control
To execute the mounted triangle effectively, you need to combine proper positioning, control, and timing.
Step 1: Secure Side Control
- Begin in a strong side control, with your chest heavy on your opponent.
- Control their near-side arm by pinning it to the mat or trapping it with your knee. This arm will be critical for setting up the triangle.
Step 2: Isolate the Far Arm
- Use your hand or elbow to push their far arm across their body, creating space for the transition.
- If your opponent resists, bait them by loosening your pressure slightly, then quickly trap the arm when they adjust.
Step 3: Transition to Mount
- Once the far arm is across, step over your opponent’s body and move into mount.
- Keep their arm trapped across their chest or neck to set up the triangle positioning.
Step 4: Lock in the Triangle
- Slide your shin across their chest, positioning your knee near their neck while your other leg hooks under their head.
- Adjust your legs into the triangle position by locking your ankle under the knee of the leg trapping their neck.
Step 5: Tighten the Choke
- Squeeze your knees together while pulling down on their head to tighten the choke.
- Adjust your angles as needed to ensure the choke is effective, and keep their arm trapped across their neck for maximum pressure.
Why the Mounted Triangle is So Effective
- Maintains Positional Dominance:
Even if your opponent escapes the submission, you’re still in a dominant mount position. - High Submission Rate:
The mounted triangle is a dual-threat—if the choke doesn’t succeed, you can transition to an armbar or other finishes. - Surprise Factor:
Setting up a triangle from side control is unexpected for many opponents, increasing the likelihood of catching them off guard.
Key Details to Refine the Mounted Triangle
- Control the Arm: The arm across the neck is critical. Without it, the triangle’s pressure will weaken, allowing your opponent to escape.
- Angle Adjustment: If the choke isn’t tight, swivel your body slightly to the side to create a sharper choking angle.
- Stay Heavy: Keep your weight forward to prevent your opponent from bridging or escaping during the setup.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Rushing the Transition:
If you move too quickly, your opponent may create space and escape. Take your time and maintain control throughout. - Lack of Tightness:
Ensure your legs are cinched tightly around their neck and arm. Squeeze your knees together for maximum pressure. - Poor Arm Isolation:
If their far arm isn’t secured, they’ll have an easier time escaping. Focus on controlling both arms during the setup.
Drill and Dominate
The mounted triangle from side control is a versatile submission that showcases both control and technique. Practice it in drills, focusing on smooth transitions and positional control. Once you’ve honed the mechanics, start incorporating it into live rolls to see how effective it can be against resisting opponents.
With time and practice, this submission can become a reliable weapon in your arsenal. So hit the mats, refine the details, and add this high-level technique to your game! 🥋