How to Do the Mount to S-Mount Transition in BJJ
Transitioning from mount to S-mount sets up high-percentage armbars and back takes. Slide one knee up near their head to create the attack angle.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 From mount, control their posture
- 2 Slide one knee up toward their head
- 3 Hook your foot under their shoulder
- 4 Your weight shifts forward
- 5 Immediately attack armbar or take back
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Transitioning without control
- ⚠️ Losing balance
- ⚠️ Not hooking under shoulder
- ⚠️ Telegraphing the movement
- ⚠️ Not attacking immediately
🔄 Variations
- → To armbar
- → To back take
- → To mounted triangle
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Bridge as they transition
- → Turn into raised knee
- → Trap the foot
Track Your Mount to S-Mount Transition Progress
Log every time you practice the Mount to S-Mount Transition and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime, the free BJJ tracker, builds muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
Related Techniques
More Transitions
View all →Arm Drag
The arm drag is a fundamental wrestling technique adapted for BJJ. By pulling your opponent's arm ac...
Berimbolo
The berimbolo is an advanced back take from De La Riva guard. You invert underneath your opponent to...
Mount to Back Take
Taking the back when your opponent turns away to escape mount. Follow their turn and secure hooks....
Side Control to Mount
Advancing from side control to mount by stepping or sliding over to the full mount position....
Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Mount to S-Mount Transition? ▼
The Mount to S-Mount Transition is typically introduced at the blue belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Building a technical foundation. Developing a guard game and understanding of timing.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Mount to S-Mount Transition works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the Mount to S-Mount Transition? ▼
The Mount to S-Mount Transition is typically executed from mount. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.