How to Do the North-South to Side Control in BJJ
Transitioning from north-south back to side control to set up different attacks or when the opponent is defending north-south well. This lateral movement keeps you in a dominant position.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Maintain control of their arms during transition
- 2 Slide body to the side keeping pressure
- 3 Establish crossface and underhook in side control
- 4 Keep heavy hips throughout the move
- 5 Set up attacks from new position
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Lifting weight during transition
- ⚠️ Creating space for escape
- ⚠️ Not establishing proper grips in side control
- ⚠️ Losing control of their arms
- ⚠️ Moving too slowly
🔄 Variations
- → Quick slide to side control
- → Spinning to opposite side
- → North-south to knee on belly
- → North-south to mount
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Frame during transition
- → Bridge when weight shifts
- → Guard recovery during slide
- → Turtle during weight change
Track Your North-South to Side Control Progress
Log every time you practice the North-South to Side Control and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build 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 North-South to Side Control? ▼
The North-South to Side Control is typically introduced at the white belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. The beginning of the BJJ journey. Focus on survival, basic positions, and fundamental movements.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The North-South to Side Control 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 North-South to Side Control? ▼
The North-South to Side Control is typically executed from north south. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.