Top Position Dominance - Bottom Leg Control Principles

Maintaining top position is a fundamental principle in Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing the importance of staying on top unless a submission from the bottom is more advantageous. The strategy involves a sequence of passing the guard, achieving mount, and securing a choke, while also offering the opponent an opportunity to expose their back for an alternative attack path.

When on top, it's crucial to balance the distribution of weight to keep the opponent pinned without giving them control over your hips, which could lead to a reversal. This concept is particularly relevant in positions like Half Guard or Side Control, where controlling the opponent's bottom leg is key to preventing them from building a base and reversing the position.

The bottom leg, defined as the leg attached to the hip closer to the mat, is the pivot point for the opponent's attempts to get on top. By controlling this leg, you can prevent their movement and maintain top dominance. This control can be achieved through grips, pins, or wrapping the lapel around the leg.

For instance, in Deep Half Guard, identifying and controlling the bottom leg is essential to prevent the opponent from coming up. Similarly, in X-Guard scenarios, maintaining control of the bottom leg thwarts the opponent's efforts to stand up and reverse the position.

Understanding the concept of bottom leg control is also beneficial for the bottom player, as it informs when it's feasible to expend energy to come on top. For example, in one leg X-Guard, controlling the bottom leg is crucial for a successful sweep.

In summary, the overarching theme is to stay on top when passing or controlling from Side Control, and to always seek bottom leg control when the opponent gets underneath you. This approach helps maintain top position and prevent reversals.